Frank Bruno reveals he will not be handed licence as surprise boxing comeback scuppered

The former WBC world heavyweight champion, now 54-years-old, last entered the ring in March 1996

Frank Bruno has said that his agent has been told by British Boxing Board of Control that he would not be granted a licence if he sought one.

The former WBC world heavyweight champion revealed his intentions to step back into the ring during an appearance on daytime television show This Morning, last fought professionally twenty years ago.

Bruno has since lived with bipolar disorder and depression, which attracted highly-controversial and much-criticised media coverage.

“I’ve been in the gym all the time, that’s why I want to come back into boxing,” he said on This Morning. “I’m going back into boxing as well.”

When asked by presenter Phillip Schofield whether a return was a good idea, Bruno responded: “I haven’t got a choice. I train every day.”

The 54-year-old also spoke about his mental health treatment, revealing that his medication for bipolar disorder had caused severe side-effects.

"They made me suicidal,” he said. “They mess up my head. I can't sleep. I have so much energy."

Last week, footage of Bruno training in Ricky Hatton’s Hitman gym in Manchester was shared widely on social media, with many commenting on the former champion’s exemplary shape.

It is unclear as to whether the British Boxing Board of Control would allow Bruno to fight. Boxers must meet strict medical conditions and requirements in order to obtain a license.

Bruno’s last fight, in March 1996, saw him lose the WBC title to Mike Tyson at the MGM Grand inside three rounds.

He had won the belt just six months previously against Oliver McCall at Wembley Stadium, the first world title win of his 13-year-long career.