Topics: Prince Harry, Prince Andrew, Royal Family, UK News, Meghan Markle
The Duke of Sussex has finally spoken out on the long-standing rumours that he and his uncle, the disgraced Prince Andrew, became embroiled in a physical altercation some years ago over his wife.
The new royal biography titled Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, by author Andrew Lowni, is primarily about the downfall of Andrew - who has long been accused of sex scandals and the abuse of minors - as well as his relationship with ex-partner, Sarah Ferguson.
It is in this book, however, that an accusation involving Prince Harry is also made.
The book recalls a family gathering happening over 10 years ago, at which the Yorks were present alongside their nephew.
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At said occasion, Andrew, now 74, is said to have had some damning discussions about then Suits actress Meghan Markle behind the Prince's back - despite the pair only having gone public with their relationship in 2016.
According to journalists at The Mail, who reportedly obtained an excerpt of the biography, Andrew, now 74, became involved in a 'heated argument' with Harry. The work adds that this altercation stemmed from 'something Andrew said behind Harry's back.'
As Lowni writes, the row resulted in 'punches' being 'thrown' on the now 40-year-old Prince's part, which resulted in Andrew suffering with a bloody nose.
The author adds that, during said get-together, Andrew had also suggested that the Sussexes' relationship wouldn't last, because US-born Meghan was an 'opportunist.'
Father-of-two Harry's team have since responded to said allegations, claiming the Prince 'can confirm neither of those things are true.'
The 2 Aug statement given to PEOPLE Magazine continues: "Prince Harry and Prince Andrew have never had a physical fight, nor did Prince Andrew ever make those comments about the Duchess of Sussex to Prince Harry."
Harry's team adds that legal action is reportedly underway to tackle a number of the claims made in Lowni's work and The Mail's discussions of said allegations.
"Such are the gross inaccuracies, damaging and defamatory remarks made in the Daily Mail's story," the Duke's statement went on.
"I can confirm a legal letter from Prince Harry's counsel has been sent to the Mail."
For those in need of a reminder, the Prince and Meghan first went public with their romance in 2016 - several years after being introduced by a mutual friend. In 2017, the couple announced their engagement, and the following year, they were husband and wife.
Two years later, however, having reportedly been subjected to maltreatment by a number of senior British royals, the couple announced their resignation from official duties.
Their announcement read at the time: "After many months of reflection and internal discussions, we have chosen to make a transition this year in starting to carve out a progressive new role within this institution.
"We intend to step back as 'senior' members of the Royal Family and work to become financially independent, while continuing to fully support Her Majesty The Queen."
2020 also marked the year that the Sussexes - who, by then, were parents to young son, Prince Archie - moved to the States to set up a new private life, setting up shop in Montecito, California, where they also welcomed a daughter, Princess Lilibet.
Earlier this year, however, Harry told the BBC he still hopes to repair his relationship with with loved ones.
"I would love reconciliation with my family," the Prince claimed at the time. "There's no point continuing to fight any more, life is precious."
