"Britain's most tattooed man" has spoken out about how his ink has ruined his dating life and his ongoing struggle to find love - including being viewed as a fetish by some.
King Of Ink Land King Body Art The Extreme Ink-It - formerly known as Matthew Whelan - is no stranger to media attention as has regularly hit headlines in the past for his unusual full-body coverage in ink. The 44 year-old, who has recently committed to a short tattoo hiatus in order to save money to pay off his mortgage, told of how he has struggled to find a relationship. Previously, he shared how he is often "trolled" for having a crush on cartoon character, Lola Bunny, but now admits that he would really like to settle down with someone after being single for six months.
While he has dated in the past, including until earlier this year, King of Ink Land claims that all of his relationships have ended due to his alternative look. He told WhatstheJam: "I'm a King without his Queen. I think dating someone very alternative [comes with] its own challenges. As for a fetish, I think some do find that in me, or use me as a kink. I was seeing someone up until January this year, but that ended and while I've been on a tattoo hiatus, I've had enough time to move on. Now, I've been officially single for half-a-year."
The actor from Birmingham, recalled how he has received rude and unkind comments from potential dates regarding his tattoos, as well as some unusual behaviour too. He recounted: "One date said that my eyes make me look like a demon and they found it hard to make any eye contact with me. Some have suggested that I'll be an inky mess when I'm older. One thing on dates, which does get a little awkward or off-putting, is stares. It doesn't bother me, though."
Having built a name for himself due to his extreme style, he's convinced that people don't always want to date him for the right reasons either, saying: "I'm sure there have also been people in the past that have used me to gain access to some of the events I have attended, such as with celebrities and other high-profile people. I've also attracted a fair share of stalkers over the years."
Horror tattoo bungle leaves woman blind after eye-inking goes wrongIn an attempt to find love, King of Ink Land has taken part in swinging as well as emerging himself in the porn scene, having filmed a few X-rated videos in the past. He also appeared on TV dating show Game of Attraction but was unfortunately booted out in the second week before he had the chance to meet the one.
He said: "I want to find someone who has an equal respect and understanding for me as an individual with my diverse lifestyle. I definitely try to embrace my alterations and ink. While my appearance may not be everyone's cup of tea, I belong to someone out there. They will see past the way I look and want to get to know the person inside. I don't see myself popping up on Love Island anytime soon, but who knows. Maybe The Undateables?"