Fiddy refutes Sly sacking reports

50 Cent has denied he was axed from the cast of Sylvester Stallone's forthcoming movie 'The Expendables' - insisting he pulled out to concentrate on his music career.

The 'In Da Club' hitmaker signed up to star as Hale Caesar in the upcoming action movie, after Forest Whitaker pulled out due to conflicting schedules.

But earlier this week various internet reports claimed 50, real name Curtis Jackson, was dropped by director Stallone after film fans complained that the rapper wasn't a credible actor.

And Jackson has now responded to the rumours - revealing it was him who turned down the role.

A representative for the star said: "50 Cent was offered the role of Hale Caesar in 'The Expendables', however as he is currently in the process of completing his forthcoming album 'Before I Self Destruct' with Dr Dre and Eminem he was unfortunately not able to commit to the project."

Jackson has been replaced by 'Everybody Hates Chris' actor Terry Crews.