Nigel Benn described as ‘fittest 55-year-old on the planet’ ahead of Brit boxing legend’s return after 23 years
NIGEL BENN has been dubbed “the fittest 55-year-old on planet Earth” as he prepares to come out of retirement.
The British boxing legend hung up his gloves 23 years ago following consecutive defeats to Steve Collins in 1996.
Now the former middleweight and super-middleweight world champion is preparing for a stunning return to the ring.
And he has called an official press conference for tomorrow where he is expected to announce his comeback to take on another ex-world champ in Sakio Bika.
The bout is believed to be taking place in Birmingham on November 23.
Benn’s comeback has been met with much scepticism, particularly due to potential health concerns due to his age.
He must be the fittest 55-year-old on planet Earth
Promoter Mark Peters on the returning Nigel Benn
But his promoter Mark Peters has come out fighting on his client’s behalf prior to the official announcement.
And he insisted he would not be backing “The Dark Destroyer” if he had any doubts for the icon’s well-being.
Speaking to the , Peters said: “It's not like Nigel left the sport, hung up his gloves and never trained again.
“He must be the fittest 55-year-old on planet Earth.
“He has still been training twice a day and he will shadow box anywhere.”
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He added: “I wouldn't support Nigel if I didn't believe he was fit to box.
“It's his life and his prerogative to fight.
“From his point of view, this is closure for him.”
Benn’s return to the ring will be licensed by the British and Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) rather than the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC).