Boxer Calzaghe apologises for cocaine use after sting

The former world middleweight and light-heavyweight title holder said he had taken the drug during "what have sometimes been the long days" since his retirement.

It follows a tabloid newspaper sting in which he discussed buying and taking cocaine with an undercover reporter.

In an apology posted on his website, the unbeaten boxer said he regretted his occasional cocaine use and apologised to friends, family and fans.

The newspaper reported that during the meeting with the boxer, conversation turned to the subject of cocaine. It quoted Calzaghe as saying: "I know the score. I done bits and pieces myself. Don't tell my dad."

In a statement released yesterday, 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.

"It is not a major problem in my life but it is something I am actively addressing."

During the newspaper sting, Calzaghe also made apparently disparaging remarks against fellow boxers including Ricky Hatton, Prince Naseem Hamed and Amir Khan.