Boxing legend Sugar Ray at Villa

Widely regarded to be one of the sport's all-time greats, the multiple time former world champion and olympic gold medalist will lead the evening's entertainment at a sportsman's dinner at Villa Park's Holte Suite.

The now 53-year-old held world titles over five weight categories ranging from welter to light heavy, beating such stars as Marvin Hagler, Robert Duran and Floyd Mayweather Sr over a 20-year professional career.

The guest list is also likely to be star-studded, with former world champion John H Streacy and world title contender Tony Sibson expected to attend.

British boxer Dave 'Boy' Green - who was knocked out by an in-his-pomp Sugar Ray in a WBC welterweight title fight in 1980 - will also meet his old rival once again.

Former Irish heavyweight champion, Mike Tyson's old sparring partner and film star 'Big' Joe Egan will also be there, while two stars of the small screen have also been invited.

Coronation Street's Steve Arnold and Craig Gazey - better known as Ashley Peacock and Greame Proctor in the hit ITV soap - are big fans of both boxing and Sugar Ray.

Event organiser Ken Purchase, of Ringside Promotions, is expecting a special night.

He said: "I have done a few tours with Sugar Ray, so I have got to know him reasonably well, and he loves to meet boxing people.

"This is a great opportunity for people to come and listen to what he has to say. Believe me he is worth the money - he is a great public speaker and still very knowledgeable about the fight scene.

"And with Dave 'Boy' Green also coming along, you have a British boxer who can tell you first hand how great Sugar Ray was, because he fought him for the title.

"This is a real treat for fans, all the boxers are very approachable. If you are there and they are there, you are almost guaranteed to speak to them, because that is just how they are."

Tickets cost £70, £90 and £150 and can be purchased by calling 07976 842 383 or online at www.ringsidepromotions.ltd.uk.