Football star 'married to niece' after leaving wife of 12 years

Brazilian footballer Hulk has reportedly married his ex-wife’s niece.

The football star caused a major stir last year when he confirmed he was dating Camila Angelo - who was actually his niece at the time.

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He separated from wife of 12 years Iran back in July - whom he has three children with - and started a relationship with Camila.

And it appears as through things are serious after Hulk wrote ‘married’ on his social media bio recently.

Hulk and Camila have also posted several photos on social media in which they appear to be wearing wedding rings.

Argentine newspaper Infobae is reporting the pair got hitched last week, claiming the “sudden marriage” was also due to the fact Camila “needed a visa to stay in the country (China).”

Hulk, real name Givanildo Vieira de Sousa, currently plays for Shanghai SIPG in the Chinese Super League.

Hulk and Camila speak out amid backlash

In December Hulk’s representatives spoke publicly to defend the couple.

“Hulk called Camila’s parents and brother to tell them the truth. They began dating in October,” they told Brazilian website UOL Esporte.

“It was Hulk himself who made the news public because he did not want to hide anything. His position is transparent.”

Camila later took to social media to confirm the news and defend herself amid backlash.

“Aunt Iran, I first want to tell you that this message is not an explanation or justification of anything,” she reportedly told The Sun.

“I needed to tell you some things that unfortunately circumstances do not allow me to say personally.

“Although it is irrelevant to you now, I love you very much and care about you, so I am speaking here.

“I really want you to know things that maybe everyone will talk about differently, mere speculation, but I don't really judge them because outsiders know absolutely nothing and most of the time just want the situation to be worse.

“It's been very hard to face all this, but I wouldn't do it if it wasn't true.”

Iran has also spoken publicly about the scandal, telling UOL columnist Leo Dias: “It is deeply regretted that Mr Hulk, not content with ending a marriage of more than 12 years, he then did not respect the pain of the one who always devoted love, affection, respect and consideration to him - as well as his children, whose supreme interests should be preserved by their father.”

Hulk, 33, has made 53 appearances for the Brazilian national side, scoring 12 goals.

He has also played for Porto and Zenit Saint Petersburg in a glittering football career.