Rafferty's duet with Tim Witherspoon

Wolverhampton's Nigel Rafferty hopes to leave former world heavyweight champion Tim Witherspoon singing the blues by the end of their boxing exhibition.

Rafferty, a pro between 1992 and 2001, steps through the ropes again for a four-round Sunday afternoon showdown with the former WBC and WBA title holder at Wolverhampton Civic Hall.

Witherspoon arrived in town today but has boxed Rafferty before, losing on points to 'the Centurion' at the Goodyear Pavilion in April 2009.

And 'Terrible' Tim's claims that he not only is a better fighter but has a superior singing voice will see them head to the city's Victoria Inn pub on Deans Road tonight to settle the first of their differences.

The regulars at the pub, which Rafferty runs, will watch it all unfold and could even be treated to a duet!

'Raffo' said: "It's going to be a war tomorrow and I am ready, if he wants to come for that I am up for it.

"I have got so much respect for him because I am getting in the ring with a world champion but, once we step through the ropes, it's a different world.

"He even reckons he can sing better than me, we will see who is the best singer when he comes to the pub on Saturday night.

"We might even do a duet, we could be the Righteous Brothers!"

Witherspoon admits he underestimated the abilities the first time around of Rafferty, who is a former Midlands champion but has never held a title at national level.

The 53-year-old boxes for fun these days but got dragged into a proper fight with Rafferty, the contest ending with a frantic 30 second burst of fast fists flying.

Nonetheless, Witherspoon still believes he won that night and insists he won't be surprised by his opponent this time.

He said: "I thought it was just going to be a regular exhibition, but it turned into something a little serious. It was a lot harder than I thought.

"He got the win - and I got robbed in Wolverhampton. He can take a punch and he's durable, he will keep coming at me but I am quicker than him.

"This time whatever happens, happens, but we will still love each other when it's over."

Tickets for the show will be available on the door at the Civic Hall tomorrow, or by calling the Box Office on 0870 320 7000.