Boxing: Calzaghe apology to fans over cocaine use

The former undefeated super-middleweight world boxing champion Joe Calzaghe apologised for his "occasional use of cocaine" since retiring after being caught by a Sunday newspaper.

The 38-year-old Welshman, who retired from boxing a year ago having won all 46 of his professional fights, released a statement on his website: "I'm not proud to say that I have joined a list of royals, sports and showbiz stars who have been scammed by the News of the World's notorious Fake Sheikh," he said. The tabloid, whose leading undercover reporter sometimes poses as a sheikh to befriend celebrities, was front-page news yesterday.

"In talking directly to my fans, I would only add that I am deeply sorry if anyone feels let down and I will make sure that nothing like it happens again," Calzaghe said. "I very much regret my occasional use of cocaine in what have sometimes been the long days since my retirement from the ring. I am fully aware of the bad example it sets to other people and particularly to youngsters and I apologise to my family, friends and fans."