May 21 Reuters Hard Rock International, the chain that runs the storied Hard Rock Cafe hotels and restaurants, has denied any involvement in a takeover bid for embattled Star Entertainment, sending the Australian casino operator39;s shares down 10 on Tuesday.

Star on Monday said it had received interest from a group of investors including Hard Rock Hotels Resorts Pacific, lifting shares up 20.

However, confusion around the identity of the group sent shares down on track to mark their worst day in over a month.

We want to make it clear that Hard Rock International is not involved in, nor has it authorized, any discussions, activities or negotiations on its behalf in connection with a proposed bid for Star, the Floridabased chain said on Monday, adding that it had not authorized the use of the Hard Rock brand in connection with any proposed bid for Star by any third party.

KCM Trade chief market analyst Tim Waterer said Hard Rock International39;s statement has taken some wind out of the sails of Star39;s stock as investors try to figure out who the possible suitors for Star are.

The Australian casino operator had earlier said that Hard Rock Hotels Resorts Pacific was a local partner of Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos, but later said they had not heard directly from Hard Rock International.

Reuters could not immediately get in touch with Hard Rock Hotels Resorts Pacific.

The Australian Financial Review on Monday had reported that Hard Rock had made an offer to take…