‘Big John’ Fisher Detained and Deported from Australia Over Visa Dispute

British social media sensation ‘Big John’ Fisher has been detained by the Australian Border Force (ABF) and is being deported to the UK after authorities flagged an issue with the visa he used for entry.

Fisher, widely known for his viral fast-food reviews and signature catchphrase “bosh,” was due to begin a promotional tour in Australia, with scheduled appearances in Perth and Sydney.

Fisher, whose real name is John Fisher and who is the father of heavyweight boxer Johnny Fisher, arrived in Western Australia on Tuesday. He later took to social media to express his disappointment, announcing the cancellation of all his Australian events and stating he was being held in a detention hotel.

In a post on Wednesday—which marked his 52nd birthday—Fisher complained about his treatment by officials but maintained a positive outlook. “Well even though I am under lock and key it’s my birthday, I’m still smiling and I still love Australia,” he wrote, signing off with his famed slogan.

The issue appears to centre on the visa used for his travel. Fisher stated he was questioned by border officials for four hours and was told that, despite his visa being “legit,” authorities were “not happy” that companies would be profiting from his work while he was in Australia.

It is understood that Fisher, who boasts nearly 700,000 followers on Instagram and a further half-million on TikTok, was attempting to enter the country on a visa that did not permit professional engagement. His planned schedule included hosting a “Bucking Bull” challenge at a greyhound race and performing a DJ set at a horse racing meet.

Fisher reported he offered to cancel all his public appearances and continue his trip as a “pure holiday,” but the offer was rejected by the ABF, which remains strict on enforcing the conditions of the country’s Migration Act and regulations.

An Australian Border Force spokesperson stated the agency could not comment on individual cases due to privacy obligations.

Fisher’s son, Johnny Fisher, confirmed the deportation on Instagram, injecting a bit of levity into the situation by joking that the Australians were “frightened of his express pace bowling ahead of the Ashes.”