FORMER world boxing champion Glenn McCrory has postponed his one man stage show - because he is not yet fighting fit.

The 51-year-old former cruiserweight champion was due to star in Carrying David at Stanley Civic Hall in County Durham for a five night run from next Tuesday.

But the grandfather-of-three, who has dropped two stones in weight, has been forced to admit he is not ready for the punishing boxing scenes as he recreates the glorious night he beat Patrick Lumumba in front of a home crowd at the Louisa Centre in Stanley on June 3, 1989.

McCrory, who grew up in nearby Annfield Plain, said: “A week gone Monday I went to the gym and did an hour and 20 minutes on the treadmill, 40 minutes on a rowing machine, then foolishly started four hours of rehearsals. After that I tried to do an hour of boxing training.

“I have not done any in forever, so I have come from no fitness to trying to get fit and I overdid it. I could not walk.

“I am so keen to get it right, but the next day I was in right state so the director has pulled me out and we have put it back.”

Carrying David, penned by North-East playwright Ed Waugh, tells the story of McCrory’s relationship with his disabled adopted younger brother.

It was David who spurred the fighter on and him the inner strength to become a world beater 27 years ago.

McCrory has vowed to continue training to get in shape for the run of shows, which he describes as ‘Rocky meets My Left Foot, at the Alun Armstrong Theatre in October.

McCrory, who has five children, said: “It is brilliant finish as it is the full fight, but I am not 24 anymore. I am 51.

“It would be wrong to do it now, as it would not give the play the credit it deserves. It should give me more time to get ready and I need to really work at it. It will be worth the wait.”

McCrory has said profits from the play will help pay for treatment for Stanley youngster Daniel Rainbow who has stage four neuroblastoma.

Producer Adam Morley said: “We are bitterly disappointed and can only apologise for any and all inconvenience caused.

“We will be putting the show on later in the year and as per the theatre and company policy can offer new dates and transfer your tickets to those or a refund on existing tickets. Thank you for your support and understanding."

Audience members should contact the theatre on 01207-299-110 for details of rescheduled dates and refunds or transferable tickets.