Former world champion boxer David Haye is reportedly preparing legal action against ITV, seeking damages of up to £10 million over what he claims is lasting harm to his reputation following his appearance on I'm a Celebrity... South Africa. The 45-year-old has faced significant backlash since the show aired, with viewers accusing him of “bullying” fellow contestant Adam Thomas and criticising a number of controversial remarks he made during his time in the jungle—particularly comments about women.

According to reports, Haye has instructed his legal team to formally contact ITV and is pushing for a full investigation into how the show was edited. A source claimed he is “incandescent with rage” and believes he has been unfairly portrayed, alleging he has been made a scapegoat by producers. The same insider suggested Haye is seeking compensation for what he describes as “propaganda” that has negatively impacted his earning potential, with lawyers estimating losses could reach eight figures.

Part of his grievance reportedly centres on a moment involving Gemma Collins, where he was accused of “fat-shaming.” Critics pointed to editing choices that appeared to emphasise his comments, including reaction shots and timing, which Haye’s camp argues painted him in an unfairly negative light.

The fallout may already be affecting his career. Reports suggest a potential deal with Netflix has collapsed, alongside other brand opportunities. Haye is said to have enlisted the services of Gatehouse Chambers, a high-profile legal firm, as he explores his options.

Beyond that incident, Haye also sparked outrage with remarks about his girlfriend, Sian Osborne, describing her as having the personality of an “ugly bird.” He went on to elaborate in a way that many viewers found offensive, suggesting that women who are not conventionally attractive develop stronger personalities—a line of reasoning that drew widespread criticism.

Tensions in camp were not limited to his comments about women. His clashes with Thomas became a major talking point throughout the series. Thomas, who lives with psoriatic arthritis, said the experience left him feeling “broken,” while Haye dismissed him as a “professional victim” and accused him of exaggerating his condition.

The conflict escalated during the finale when Jimmy Bullard claimed Thomas had used strong language during an unaired argument. Hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly pushed back on that narrative, stating the exchange had not been as aggressive as suggested. Thomas later accepted responsibility for his actions and expressed goodwill toward Bullard, but Haye interjected, questioning the sincerity of that sentiment and insisting that key footage had been omitted.

Haye and Bullard also attempted to rally other campmates to support claims that Thomas had been “abusive, intimidating and aggressive,” further fuelling the controversy.

Since leaving the show, Haye’s stance has done little to quiet criticism. Observers—including commenters from the Residents in the Shade Borough Instagram comments. Many noted that he has continued to stand by his remarks in multiple podcast appearances, effectively doubling down rather than showing contrition. Others have questioned the viability of his legal case, with scepticism growing over whether he will secure any financial payout from ITV at all.

The situation has sparked wider debate online, with some critics sarcastically comparing the move to other unlikely legal battles and suggesting that “accountability has left the chat.”