Huang Jianxiang's departure from China Central Television ends a controversial career marked by frequent outbursts capped by his hysterical cries of "Forza Italia" ("Go Italy!") in their World Cup win against Australia.

During the knockout match, Huang shouted: "Don't give the Australians a chance!," and went into ecstasy when Italian left back Fabio Grosso earned a penalty late in the game.

A similar outburst followed midfielder Francesco Totti's successful penalty kick, which won it for the Italians.

Xinhua news agency said Friday Huang, credited with pioneering a new and more flamboyant commentator style in staid China, "has gained everything he wants from CCTV while offending almost all of his colleagues."

CCTV managers who had long tolerated his innovative style because he drew large audiences finally soured on Huang, Xinhua said.

The 38-year-old confirmed his departure with an uncharacteristically terse statement posted on his own blog, entitled "Yes, it's true".

"Now I am an unemployed middle-aged person. Don't ask why," the entry said.

Huang, who debuted as a CCTV commentator for the 1995 Copa America, was suspended from his post for several months in 2001 for outrageous commentary during China's qualifying match against Qatar, Xinhua said.

Huang was also last year the subject of intense media coverage of his relationship with pop star Zhang Liangying, amid speculation that led to his divorce.

He also drew criticism for pouring scorn on another well-known CCTV presenter during a talk-show appearance.