Bruno still a knock-out for the fans

Hundreds of boxing fans packed a Staffordshire venue to enjoy an evening of entertainment with popular boxing figure Frank Bruno.

Bruno appeared at Bar Sport, Cannock, to chants from fans where he spoke about his career in the ring and his troubles outside it.

He was joined by Radio Five Live presenter and good friend Gary Richardson for the after dinner speaking event at the venue's Premier Suite .

Bruno spoke of his admiration for Iron Mike Tyson saying he was a "sweet man" away from the ring. "Tyson was an animal in the ring – he was a killing machine.

"He was fierce but, although he punched hard and had devastating combinations, he wasn't the hardest puncher. Jumbo Cummings hit me the hardest," Bruno said.

He said he had regrets about his defeat to Lennox Lewis in 1993 when he led until the 7th round when he was stopped. He said: "I should have handled the fight differently. I was winning the fight comfortably but I should have paced myself better."

Bruno rose became World Heavyweight Champion, defeating Oliver McCall in 1995. His reign was to a short one though as he lost his crown to Tyson.

He spoke of his mental breakdown of five years ago, blaming the stress of his divorce from his wife for his troubles, culminating in police and doctors visiting his home in 2003 where he was taken to a psychiatric hospital. He added: "Those were really bad times. I wouldn't wish a divorce on my worst enemy. I have always kept myself in shape but you don't know how stress will affect you. The stress of the divorce affected me bad and I had a total mental breakdown." Bruno is still a favourite with fans who were clearly delighted to see him in Cannock.

Ian Peasley, 33, of Wolverhampton, who said: "It has been a great night.

"Frank has had a lot of problems but you can't ignore the fact he was a very good fighter in his prime and became World Champion. I have really enjoyed him talk about his career in boxing."

His friend Scott Faulkner, 32, also of Wolverhampton added: "I think Frank is a legend and it is great to see him getting up there and on form. People have been chanting his name throughout the night. They love him. It has been a really great night."