11.06.09 ---   According to published reports,  DMX’s career as a boxer may have ended before it even began.  Close sources are reporting that the rapper has pulled out of an upcoming boxing match.

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 reported that X backed out 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.