DMX was scheduled to square off against New Mexico based fighter Eric Martinez on December 12 in Alabama, during an event sponsored by Thunder Promotions.

One source said DMX pulled out of the fight because his safety could not be guaranteed, while another claimed that the rapper backed out because Thunder Promotions refused his request to “fix” the fight.

Sources stated that Thunder Promotions may pursue legal action against DMX.

In the meantime, a variety of popular rappers have been contacted to stand up to Eric Martinez during the fight.

A replacement for DMX will be announced as early as next week.

In late October, DMX called into Washington’s 106.7 to talk about the bout.

He stated that he had no plans to train for the fight and appeared to take the challenge against Martinez lightly.

“I’m a just walk in as is. It wouldn’t be fair if I trained,” DMX said and later said: “I aint trying to have my face all messed up.”