Topics: Boxing, Heavyweight Boxing, Martyn Ford
Martyn Ford was concerned that the Iranian Hulk would take his own life if the original fight went ahead.
The British bodybuilder was supposed to fight the Iranian Hulk – real name Sajad Gharibi – on 30 April.
However, the fight was called off after 'The World's Scariest Man' made an announcement on social media.
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Both fighters have blamed one another for the cancellation of the boxing bout, but Ford has insisted that his concerns over Gharibi's mental health initially began after the two had a heated face-off in Dubai.
The altercation saw Gharibi get shoved to the ground by Ford.
He told The Mirror: "This is where we came to Dubai and had the confrontation.
"I have genuine concerns about his mental health and how he’s feeling. It is who I am.
"I can't fight someone who I genuinely believe can take his own life after the fight.
"As an outsider people might say, ‘What are you on about?’ but from someone who was there, who saw him and the way he crumbled.
"We had a face-off and it was one little push. I looked in his eyes and then turned around and said to the guys, ‘There is no fight’.
"What happened afterwards I already felt bad about, the amount he got bullied and his reaction to being bullied breaking down on National TV. Then his parents came out and said 'we don’t want anything to do with you, you are weak'.
"Then on Instagram Live when he turned around and said he hates Iranians and wants to end his life. I just thought, 'No I can’t be a part of this’."
Despite the setback, Ford seems to be eager to find a new opponent.
He added: “I’m a little bit frustrated and bored. But I am ticking on and doing what I can to keep myself active and busy.
"Focus is the main thing, when you have prepared for something and you are not able to go out and do it with the work I have put in it is frustrating. For me it is trying to find something as soon as possible to put that energy into something.
Ford concluded: “I am still training, only thing I am not doing is active sparring. I have switched back into its resistance and explosive power.
"If something does happen which I am hoping I can sign up too soon, I have been training and dedicating so much time and effort to it."
If you or someone you know is experiencing feelings of isolation and distress or thoughts of suicide, The Samaritans are on hand to help you through the most difficult times.
You can call them in confidence on 116 123, email [email protected], or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.
You can also call MIND on 0300 123 3393 or CALM on 0800 58 58 58.
In the USA, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Helpline on 1-800-273-TALK (8255) if you or someone you know is in need of mental health assistance urgently.
The Helpline is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
