Former professional boxer David Haye has hinted that the upcoming series of I'm A Celebrity South Africa could become 'saucier' and more dramatic, as he gears up for his second appearance on the ITV reality show. The 45-year-old athlete, who previously secured a bronze placement in the 12th series, is set to join returning stars like EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks and Ashley Roberts in this all-stars edition.
Gloves-Off Approach to Jungle Drama
Haye has openly declared he will adopt a gloves-off mentality for the pre-recorded series, which airs this April, and is not opposed to a bit of camp drama under the watchful eyes of hosts Ant and Dec. Reflecting on his initial experience in Australia, he noted, 'I was fortunate everyone was pleasant in Australia. There weren't any real antagonists who tried to wind things up. Maybe this time around it might get saucier and get a bit interesting (when it comes to drama)!'
Fearless Facing Creepy-Crawlies and Trials
When it comes to the show's notorious creepy-crawlies and physical trials, Haye remains unfazed. He confidently stated, 'When you used to get punched by giant men, a little bandicoot biting your hand isn't going to bother you too much!' He added that he feels more prepared this time, having learned what to expect from his previous stint. 'I'm not worried by the trials in South Africa. A lot of boxers are badly injured, so unless you are going to get savaged by a lion – and I am sure that won't happen! – how bad can it really be?! Chuck a bunch of cockroaches or spiders over me, I am pretty sure I will be fine.'
Embracing the Camp Diet and Digital Detox
Haye also expressed indifference towards the infamous camp diet, almost daring producers to challenge him further. 'I was okay to be honest,' he said, explaining his lifelong experience with weight management as a boxer. 'For my whole life up until the age of 28, I had to maintain a specific weight. I had to lose weight, bulk up, strip down and I am used to having a calorific deficit. So that side of things was ok.'
Additionally, the polyamorous father-of-one views the jungle as a welcome digital detox retreat. He described the experience as a break from constant connectivity: 'You are constantly connected to a multitude of businesses, relationships, family stuff and there is always something happening. When you go in there, it all stops. You can think about different elements in your life, relationships and plans moving forward. It stops the noise that I think people don't realise is constantly there every time they pick up the phone, look at an email or look at text messages.'
I'm A Celebrity... South Africa is scheduled to return to ITV in April, promising viewers a potentially spicier and more engaging season with Haye and other celebrities navigating the challenges of the South African National Park.
