Boxing: Harrison doubts if Bruno is fit to fight

Audley Harrison said it would be an "honour" to go head-to-head with Frank Bruno. The reigning Olympic super-heavyweight champion is undefeated after 10 professional bouts but has yet to meet a worthy challenger.

Bruno, now 41, has been in retirement for five years after losing his title to Mike Tyson, but said over the weekend that he wanted a return to the ring to take on Harrison.

Harrison responded by stating that he is keen to meet the former world heavyweight champion at a suitable date but hinted that the veteran may not be in the best physical shape after a detached retina forced his retirement.

"Frank was a hero to me in the 80 and early 90s," Harrison said. "It would be an honour to share a ring with him – when the time is right and, of course, if it is actually safe for him to do so."

Harrison's business manager, Hazel Bruno-Gilbert, said there were plenty of hurdles to be cleared before any possible bout could be considered. "Harrison is by far the highest profile heavyweight prospect of recent years and Frank Bruno was undoubtedly the darling of the British public during his successful career," she said.

"The fight would have mass appeal with the British public and Audley is ready to accept the challenge. Providing terms between both parties can be agreed, all the issues relating to Frank Bruno's medical condition are established and most importantly that this contest fits in with our plans for Audley's boxing development.

"We have been aware of Frank Bruno's interest for some time, however, we still await a firm written proposal from Frank Bruno or indeed Frank Warren, assuming he is representing Bruno."

Bruno's application for a new professional licence will be considered "on its merits" if the 41-year-old presses on with his comeback plans. The British Boxing Board of Control will rule nothing in or out without giving any application due consideration – although Bruno was forced to hang up his gloves for fear of risking his sight after the Tyson defeat.

A BBBC spokesman said: "There are many aspects to any application. With a 41-year-old who has not boxed for five years, there are medical matters, which would also apply to other boxers. But we will deal with it when it happens. We cannot anticipate what may or may not happen."