Boxing champion Joe Calzaghe has been tol that he needs to lose two stone if he wants to stand a chance of winning this years Strictly Come Dancing.

His professional partner Kristina Rihanoff has put him on a special diet and told The Sun : “It’s fantastic to be paired with a big, strong sportsman.

“John was lovely and won people’s hearts, but it’s so great to have an athlete this year.

“Joe’s used to training hard and so he shouldn’t have any problems with the long hours and healthy diet, but he needs to lose the weight if he’s to stand a chance.”

She added: “He’s been out of the boxing ring for a while and has put on about two stone.

“He really wants to win and I’ve told him that I think we’re in with a really good shot.”

She added: “As a boxer he is used to a certain diet but it’s obviously not the same as a dancer’s – so I’ve been giving him tips on what to eat.”