Boxing news: Nigel Benn explains how plant-based diet has helped get him in stunning shape for comeback fight
Nigel Benn has exclusively told talkSPORT that he possesses the fitness of a 25-year-old and his son Conor is partly to thank ahead of his comeback fight on November 23.
The 55-year-old British boxing legend announced last month that he will return to the ring in a contest for 'closure' when he faces Sakio Bika in Birmingham.
Benn will be licenced by the British and Irish Boxing Authority (BIBA) rather than the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) for the bout, though he is adamant that there are no safety concerns on his front.
He proudly declared on the Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast: “I brought in my report from Harley Street, my fitness level that I just showed you.
“It says I’ve got the fitness of a 25-year-old. I’ve not stopped training since I retired.
“I’ve never, in my entire life, ever tried to con the British public. If I tell you that I’m more fit now, you better believe me.
“I’ve suffered with depression form the age of eight when my brother got murdered.
“I’ve suffered with all that for all my life until I was 45, when I had an encounter with Jesus.
“My whole life changed, no drink, no drugs, nothing. I’m in great shape, I really am.”
Earlier this week, images emerged of Benn looking in impressive shape ahead of his return, though it must be noted that many are still concerned for his wellbeing.
In a further attempt to assuage these fears, the 55-year-old revealed that he's now on a plant-based diet, following his 15-0 son Conor Benn's lead.
The pair, who train together, now have a plan that consists mostly or entirely of foods derived from plants, including vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, legumes and fruits, with few or no animal products.
Benn explained: “I’ll be honest with you, I’m learning from my son. He’s gone on another level.
“I actually train with his strength and conditioning coach.
“He’s gone on a plant-based and all that. Back in my day it was, ‘Yeah, have a bit of steak Nigel three days before the fight.'
“Now you eat four/five meals a day and drink three litres of water…
“Yesterday I cooked Quorn mince, I’m fit from going on the plant-based diet.”