Man who bit boy's ear in bizarre World Snooker Championship footage breaks silence as he is identified

A MAN who bit a boy's ear during the World Snooker Championship has broken his silence to defend his actions.

Stefano, 43, was filmed biting the child while seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry spoke during a break from play in April.

The forklift driver appears to whisper in the child's ear before nibbling his earlobe.

Seconds later, the youngster waved at the camera – catching Stefano's attention – who then made a silly face.

Cops said they were “examining the contents” at the Crucible in Sheffield.

But now the Italian has said his actions were a normal way to “share love and affection”, according to MailOnline.

South Yorkshire Police also confirmed the matter was “closed” and no further action would be taken.

Stefano, from Desio near Milan, wrote on Facebook: “There are a lot of clarifications to be made but everything is in progress (sic).

“I was just someone sharing love and affection like anyone else, and it was exposed in a malicious way.”

He continued: “All photos are edited on social media, these photos are not mine, they are just put up to affect me… No more hate.

“My family is fine and closer than ever, I don't care that my face is all over social media with photomontages and fake posts.

“Leave my family alone. God bless you all and best wishes to you all.”

He has since deleted all of his social media accounts.

A police spokesperson said: “After reviewing the video, officers determined that no crime had been committed and an investigation was launched.”

X/formerly Twitter fans were quick to comment on the video, which garnered millions of views and nearly 70,000 likes by the next morning.