AN assault charge against North-East boxing legend Glenn McCrory has been dropped.

The former world champion first appeared in Newcastle Magistrates Court on Monday, December 29, accused of assaulting a man and making off without paying for a £7 taxi fare.

But yesterday (Tuesday, January 20) magistrates were told the charges against the 50-year-old had been withdrawn.

Mr McCrory of Lindisfarne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle, who had been charged in connection with an incident in Newcastle on October 18, did not attend court.

Born in Annfield Plain, County Durham, Mr McCrory held the International Boxing Federation version of the cruiserweight world championship in 1989.

He has worked as a Sky commentator and pundit since 1989.

Mr McCrory spoke after the court ruling yesterday, saying: “I am a bit perplexed about the whole thing.

“It’s something that shouldn’t have gone to court in the first place.

“It’s a misunderstanding and for some reason it’s got blown out of proportion.

“I never had anything to answer for in the first place. I’m glad it’s all over.”