Shropshire Star

Joe Calzaghe and Richie Woodhall: Boxing's world title rivals are reunited

Two former world boxing champions squared off again in retirement at a function for fans.

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Former undisputed world boxing champion Joe Calzaghe and Telford's own former world boxing champion Richie Woodhall came face-t- face in Cannock.

Calzaghe, 44, dad and former coach Enzo and uncle Sergio joined him at Bar Sport's Premier Suite in Cannock for 'An Evening With' show.

Close to 300 people enjoyed a three-course meal before the entertainment began, with comedy from popular comic Ian 'Sludge' Lees.

Guests had professional photographs taken in the back-room with Calzaghe, before a memorabilia auction took place.

The famous pugilist then took to the stage, where he spoke for nearly an hour. The questions were posed by Woodhall.

WBO World Super-Middleweight champion Joe Calzaghe takes a punch from challenger Richie Woodhall

Calzaghe and Woodhall clashed for the WBC super middleweight title in 2000 with the fighting pride of Wales prevailing by 10th round stoppage.

It was one of a staggering 21 title defences of that belt from Calzaghe, who is one of only 11 men to retire undefeated as a world champion. He recorded 46 wins from 46 bouts, with 23 TKOs.

Only three world champions in history have successfully put up their honours on more occasions. He was made an MBE and then CBE, before hanging up his gloves in early 2009.

Joe Calzaghe and Richie Woodhall

He said: "There's a big boxing community in this part of the world, I've been retired for a while now but it's great that I can come here and share my memories.

"I'd like to thank everyone for the warm welcome and I saw a few faces I recognised, not least Richie. I loved meeting him again, he's a former opponent but was always a friend.

"My dad is always with me for these things, he loves the sport just as much as I do and proved to be very good as a trainer.

"For him to grow into such a great coach by helping to make me a world-class fighter is very pleasing for me and all of our family.

"In 2007, he won the Trainer of the Year award (with Ring Magazine and Boxing Writers of America) and I got the BBC Sports Personality. It was a great time for us both."

Calzaghe is another name on a growing list of boxing legends to feature at Bar Sport, which also hosted football icon Pele earlier this month.

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