British bodybuilder and Mortal Kombat 2 actor ‘banned’ from Gold Coast hot spot
A British bodybuilder and actor filming the upcoming Mortal Kombat 2 movie on the Gold Coast was “banned” from a popular venue. Here’s why
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British bodybuilder and actor Martyn ‘The Nightmare’ Ford is the latest person to fall afoul of a Gold Coast hot spot’s strict tattoo crackdown.
The Mortal Kombat 2 actor has been spending time exploring the Coast while filming for the upcoming movie.
But a night out went awry when the 41-year-old father attempted to enter the popular Burleigh Pavilion and instead was met with the venue’s tattoo policy.
“So apparently no tattoos,” Mr Ford said taking to Instagram. “I’m officially banned.”
The 203cm tall man is 145kg of lean tattooed muscle – famed for roles for projects like Fast and Furious 9, Viking Destiny, Kingsman: The Golden Circle, Final Score and Redcon-1.
Speaking to Inked, Mr Ford said a number of his tattoos were personal mementos to his family, children and partner.
But according to Burleigh Pavilion’s policy, while guests with tattoos are permitted entry, if they are deemed “intimidating” that guest will be booted from the venue.
“Burleigh Pavilion is a family and community-oriented venue,” it reads.
“Guests with tattoos are welcome at our venue, however, our policy does not permit intimidating, aggressive, or offensive tattoos, clothing or behaviour which may offend or intimidate other guest or staff.
“Tattoos on the neck, head and face are viewed as increased intimidation in that order.”
And covering them up does not guarantee entry.
Mr Ford has since gone on to enjoy his time at other Gold Coast venues, posting to his social media that the Burleigh Pavilion “looked rubbish anyway”.
It’s not the first time the Pavilion’s stringent policy has fronted headlines.
Earlier in the year, Gold Coast resident Rachel Ubaldino was told she could not enter the premises because of her neck tattoo.
“The security guard said ‘we have a no neck tattoo policy and your tattoo is a representation of gang affiliation’,” she previously said.
Ms Ubaldino said while she and her partner had frequented the venue on a number of occasions, there were sporadic instances when the couple would be called out for their tattoos.
In 2021, Gold Coast swim teacher and DJ Felipe Mattos was also banned from the venue for his neck tattoo which says “peace” and local Maori woman Jadene Kini was refused entry in 2022 because of her traditional Moko kauae facial tattoo.
Burleigh Pavilion declined to comment.
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