• Boxing

Calzaghe apologises for using cocaine

ESPN staff
March 28, 2010
Joe Calzaghe is a former BBC Sports Personality of the Year winner © Getty Images
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Joe Calzaghe has issued an apology to his family, friends and fans after admitting to "the occasional use of cocaine".

Calzaghe was found out by an undercover newspaper investigation, in which the former WBO and British super middleweight champion was said to have boasted about his use of cocaine. The undefeated boxer reportedly made references to his drug use in Wales and in London, whilst stating his dad had no idea.

On Saturday evening Calzaghe, who has been awarded a CBE and an MBE, released a statement on his official website apologising for his actions.

"I very much regret my occasional use of cocaine in what have sometimes been the long days since my retirement from the ring," said Calzaghe, who retired in February 2009.

"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.

"It is not a major problem in my life, but it is something which I am actively addressing. Many of the other conversations reported to have taken place simply involve men joshing or shooting the breeze over a drink. While some statements are either untrue or exaggerations I am naturally sorry for any embarrassment their publication may cause to entirely blameless third parties."

Calzaghe had accused Ricky Hatton of losing his punch resistance, and claimed Amir Khan could not fight a puncher, according to the Daily Mail.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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