London, Sep 4 - Infuriated by an Australian journalist's comments on his fitness regime and unhealthy habits, Hollywood actor Russell Crowe not only challenged the journo to a cycling duel but also defeated her.

The star was infuriated when Sydney's Daily Telegraph published an article headlined - 'Smokes and fatty foods the fitness regime for Rusty' - after he was spotted puffing cigarettes and eating fast food during a bike ride, reports imdb.com.

The paper ridiculed Crowe for taking breaks from his personal trainer to eat plates of tacos and satisfy his nicotine cravings, but the star has hit back by challenging gossip columnist Annette Sharp to take him on in a cycle challenge.

Crowe's spokesperson phoned the writer and said: 'Get on your bike. Russell wants you to go riding with him. Are you ready to die?'

After accepting the duel, the actor met up with Sharp for a 12-mile cycle ride through Sydney.

In a video, the journalist is seen struggling to keep up with Crowe but the actor credits her efforts, insisting she is 'twice the man Baz (Luhrmann) is.'