A Swindon boy done good has hit back at his online critics - claiming they helped buy him his brand new sports car.

Matt Fiddes is a former bodyguard for King of Pop Michael Jackson and has since opened a successful martial arts school and featured on TV.

The 44-year-old wanted to buy a Ferrari this year but claimed that he was snubbed by dealership staff in Swindon as he was wearing a tracksuit.

He has since settled on a Lamborghini, but Matt’s luxury purchase was met with a negative reaction on the internet.

Swindon Advertiser: Matt also set up a martial arts business later in his career.Matt also set up a martial arts business later in his career. (Image: Matt Fiddes)

Speaking exclusively to the Adver, Matt revealed how the online toxicity has actually spurred him on.

“I love it the negative reaction as without them I wouldn’t be where I am as they’re my free publicists,” said Matt.

“If they can take time out of their day to be rude then it makes me more successful.

"I understand the nature of the beast and the more controversial you are, the better it does.

“They make the story go viral and they forget I pay millions in tax and I provide a lot of jobs as well as donating money to charity.”

Swindon Advertiser: Matt Fiddes was Michael Jackson's personal bodyguard earlier on in his career.Matt Fiddes was Michael Jackson's personal bodyguard earlier on in his career. (Image: Matt Fiddes)

“It used to hurt me years ago but if you don’t have people talking about you then there is something wrong so I’m cool with it.

"The haters are my biggest fans and I love them all.

“It’s an honour for me to be trolled as they have to create accounts to comment this so they’re just keyboard warriors.

“Michael Jackson said you had to develop rhinoceros’ skin and those haters paid for my Lamborghini so cheers for that.”

Not all of the comments are welcomed though.

“Quite a few people hope I get wrapped around a tree in it and I feel that’s harsh especially if my children read that type of stuff,” said Matt.

“I have a family so wishing I was dead is not on but I am offering them a chance to be inspired and make it in life.”

Swindon Advertiser: Matt has hit back at his online critics and claims Michael Jackson told him to have the skin of a rhinoceros.Matt has hit back at his online critics and claims Michael Jackson told him to have the skin of a rhinoceros. (Image: Matt Fiddes)

Matt has had his new Lamborghini for a month and has enjoyed life behind the wheel.

“It’s the best car I have ever had but it is very awkward to park,” said Matt.

“As I am 6ft 4ins I can only fit in some Lamborghinis as my head sticks out the top so I’d be fly swatting - so it had to be the Aventador.”

And the £300,000 car has been turning heads around Wiltshire.

“It gets such a good response and kids want their pictures with it and every time I go out it causes a scene,” said Matt.

Swindon Advertiser: Matt's family include Lola, Madison, Hero, Mayella, Zack, Savannah, and wife Moniqe (left to right).Matt's family include Lola, Madison, Hero, Mayella, Zack, Savannah, and wife Moniqe (left to right). (Image: Matt Fiddes)

“We are in a different world now as parents used to ask for their kids to get a lift round the block back in the Ferrari days.

“I go with it when people ask to get photos with me and the car and I let them sit in it, especially at petrol stations. It doesn’t bother me, it’s the nature of what it is with social media.

“I’ll get home from the gym and find myself on a super car TikTok. I leave the gym and have crowds of people waiting for me as I drive off.”

Matt is hoping that his latest purchase can be a force for good in amongst the usual negativity he receives.

“My wife told me to do it as I rarely spend money on myself,” he said.

“I failed my GCSEs so with exams happening right now I hope it can inspire people as I’ve had to work for what I have.”