Rapper-turned-reality TV star Coolio has stepped up to the challenge for a celebrity martial arts fight after DMX pulled out of the event last week.

DMX, real name Earl Simmons, was due to battle it out with actor Eric Martinez in an Alabama Pride MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) bout next month, but recently announced he was no longer interested amid fears for his safety.

Reports subsequently alleged the rapper quit because promoters at Thunder Productions refused to fix the match to guarantee him victory.

Gangsta's Paradise hit-maker Coolio has now been brought in as a replacement. A Thunder Productions spokesperson tells TMZ.com, "(Coolio) is going to take this seriously.

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(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)