Tyson Fury has hit back at his nomination for the Sports Personality of the Year award.
The heavyweight boxer, from Wythenshawe, was shortlisted for the award alongside Lewis Hamilton, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stuart Broad, Jordan Henderson and Hollie Doyle.
But Tyson, 32, has demanded the BBC take him off this year's list of contenders, and implored his supporters not to vote for him.
Fury was one of six athletes shortlisted this week for the award, alongside Lewis Hamilton, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Stuart Broad, Jordan Henderson and Hollie Doyle.
The world heavyweight champion wrote on his Instagram account alongside a video: "Hi this is Tyson fury the gypsy king. This is a message for @bbcsport and their SPOTY award.
"Please take me off your list as I'm the people's champion and have no need for verification or any awards.
"I know who I am and what I've done in the sport. I have the love of the people which means more to me than all the awards in the world.
"To anyone who supports me, don't vote."
Tyson became a two-time world heavyweight champion with a devastating defeat of Deontay Wilder to claim the WBC title in their Las Vegas rematch in February.
The BBC say this marked another stage in his remarkable comeback after a battle with depression and drugs.
The annual awards ceremony will air on BBC One on Sunday December 20, broadcast live from Media City in Salford.
