London, Mar 29 (ANI): Boxing legend and Strictly Come Dancing star, Joe Calzaghe, has apologised for taking cocaine.

The 38-year-old former boxer admitted his “occasional use” of the drug and spoke of the long days since he quit fighting.

“Since Joe gave up boxing he’s had so much time on his hands he has been bored out of his mind. All the time he used to spend in the gym, dedicating his life to boxing, he now has free. It’s a lot of hours to fill,” The Sun quoted his friend, as saying.

“When he has been back home in South Wales he has found himself twiddling his thumbs. In the week it can feel like a prison - nothing is happening. He has been spending more and more time in London, where there’s a massive temptation to go out a lot.

“He went 15 years without really enjoying a drink so he’s been having a beer a lot more often. He’s a sociable guy and enjoys a night out. He feels he has earned it after all the years in the ring,” Calzaghe’s friend said.”

A family friend in Newbridge said: “Joe is a hero to the family and to all his friends and fans. Everyone is surprised he’s got caught up in this but it must be because of the celebrity lifestyle he is living.

“When he was fighting he was kept away from temptation - now he is mixing with people who use drugs as part of their lifestyle.”

Calzaghe, who won MBE and CBE, retired in 2008 after winning all his 46 professional fights, confessed to taking cocaine to an undercover reporter from the News of the World.

Calzaghe, who was the 2007 BBC Sports Personality of the Year, has been living a champagne lifestyle in the two years since he quit the ring. (ANI)