Boxing Legend Frank Bruno Reiterates Importance Of Physical And Mental Health During Lockdown

EXCLUSIVE: Former world heavyweight boxing champion, Frank Bruno MBE, has been telling Isle of Wight Radio about the importance of keeping fit and healthy during lockdown.

Scroll down to listen to the interview 

The British boxing star is welcoming the return of sport for adults and children - and believes it plays a huge part in people's physical and mental health.

On Wednesday (December 2), competitive amateur sport will return on the Isle of Wight, which will be placed into Tier 1 of coronavirus restrictions.

Speaking to Isle of Wight Radio, Frank said:

"Boxing connects with so many different audiences and has done for many years.

"Lockdown has been tough for so many people, but it's important to stay fit and healthy because it's easy to become a couch potato. The virus doesn't like fit and healthy people.

"You see a lot of people out and about and kids on their bikes which is good to see. We need to keep it real and exercise. I know it's easier said than done at times though.

"A lot of people are under pressure with houses and mortgages. So many businesses have been crippled by this virus. Some are better off than others, but it's hit many people."

The 59-year-old also revealed he has visited the Isle of Wight on several occasions over the years.

He said:

"The Isle of Wight is a wonderful place. Everyone I met was really friendly and welcoming. I opened a pub down there once. 

"It's a peaceful place - a nice place to go just to chill out.

"I have a lot of respect for the people on the Isle of Wight."

LISTEN BELOW: Isle of Wight Radio's Jamie White chats to Frank Bruno

Frank was speaking ahead of the highly anticipated and controversial return of Mike Tyson to the ring tomorrow night (Saturday).

The self-proclaimed 'Baddest Man On The Planet' is taking on Roy Jones Jnr in an exhibition match in Los Angeles.

Frank said:

"I know both fighters are taking it very seriously and will want to win.

"He is a former world heavyweight champion and he won't want to mug himself off. There are a few boxers who have gone back into white collar boxing.

"Roy Jones will be buzzing around because he still has a lot of speed. But you can't take your eyes of Tyson because he is very unique. He has a lot of power and swing.

"I think Tyson is the favourite - and I am going for him. Good luck to them both."

Frank Bruno's fighting career came to an end against Mike Tyson in Las Vegas in 1996 when the fight was stopped in the third round.

Since retiring, he has gone on to become a motivational and after-dinner speaker.

Ahead of Mike Tyson v Roy Jones Jnr tomorrow, Brits Daniel Dubois and Joe Joyce will be going head to head for the British, European and Commonwealth belts.

Frank said:

"They are both great fighters, but I am going for the younger man [Dubois] has a good jab. Joe will make it difficult but I'll go for Dubois."

Daniel Dubois v Joe Joyce is on BT Sport 1 tomorrow (Saturday) from 7.30pm.