FEARS FOR GARTH AS RAPE SCANDAL PUSHES HIM TO MAX

Bloated Brooks shattered by claims

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FRAZZLED Garth Brooks is stressed to the max as he denies sordid rape claims by a former aide - and sources claim the country king is looking bloated as his blood pressure soars, leaving friends fearing for his life.

"He's totally convinced he'll get through this mess, but it's caused him undue stress," spills an insider. "He's in legal meetings and the phone is going off 24/7. He's having to fend off questions from friends and loved ones.

"It's perhaps the most traumatic event of his life. The pressure he's facing is enough to make him a nervous wreck." Sources dish the crisis is also playing havoc with his health as he denies the horrific claims.