Filipino Olympian EJ Obiena slammed Wednesday fabricated stories inventing false drama between him and two-time Olympic gold medalist Carlos Yulo.

In a social media post, Obiena denied ever commenting on Yulo’s private life, saying any assertion that he did “is outright libel.”

“I never comment on someone else’s personal life.  I HAVE NEVER MADE A SINGLE COMMENT regarding Caloy’s private life and I never shall. Any assertion otherwise is outright libel. I know when to keep my mouth shut; and when it comes to anyone’s private life this is one of those times,” he said. 

Obiena, currently the third-ranked pole vaulter in the world, said he had tried to stay quiet and not fuel misleading stories but said he felt compelled to set the record straight, because he is friends with Yulo.

“It’s a sad state of affairs when stories are fabricated to get clicks and likes and shares…I am friends with Caloy and have been for many years. And for decades to come. I don’t compete with my friend Caloy and I deeply respect him. He is a great champion for our country and I applaud him. I am proud of him. I am thankful for the glory he has brought our country,” he said.

“ ⁠If you ever want to know what I say, come here or my other social media and you’ll see it.  If some click bait site is making up stories to suck you into the drama, recognize it for what it is. It’s abuse. It’s not journalism,” he added.

Obiena, who ended his season early due to a back injury, said he will no longer comment on the matter as he is focused on getting ready for the upcoming season.

“Let’s focus on cheering our athletes on, instead of creating false drama to sell advertising space,” he said. 

Obiena missed out on a podium finish after placing fourth in the 2024 Paris Olympics. 

Obiena's advisor and friend Jim Lafferty later revealed the Olympian has had a recurring issue in the lumbar part of his spine, which started 2 years ago.