BOXING fan James Froggatt was knocked out to meet Sheffield all time great Johnny Nelson – at a book signing at The Star.
James, aged 27, a joiner from Gleadless, turned up an hour early to be the first in the queue for an autographed copy of Hard Road To Glory.
"At the time when Johnny was boxing I was just a young lad,'' he quipped, causing the good humoured boxer to wince as he took one on the chin for a photo with James.
"But seriously, he has helped to put Sheffield on the world boxing map. We've got lots of big names and Johnny is one of them.
"This book signing is terrific and The Star should do more. I'd be the first in the queue for more boxers.''
Fans still wanting a signed copy of Johnny's book can order them from The Star Shop, York Street, Sheffield. Office hours, Monday to Saturday, call 0114-2767676.Johnny, the 41-year-old former WBU, WBF and undefeated WBO Cruiserweight world champ, revealed more details of plans to turn his book into a TV drama series.
He said: "The script is already done. I've seen it and it looks great. The story is based on the book, with plans for an actor to play me as the lead.
"There's already been some interest from TV stations wanting to know more, but it's still in the early stages.
"There was an idea to make it into a film, but because so much of it would have ended up being cut out, to make it film length, people behind the plan believe it will work better as a TV mini series.
"I can't believe it's happening. First to bring out the book which is doing so well, now this.''
Johnny recently announced an official end to his boxing career and will celebrate with a Testimonial dinner at Bramall Lane, on October 18.
Along with comeback kid Ryan Rhodes and soaps actor pal Chris Walker, Johnny is also part of a celebrity line-up at charity poker event next Saturday.
For details click here.
Tickets and details available on line at www.monster-sports.co.uk, email cliftonmitchell@tiscali.co.uk, call 01332 367453 or 07500 186600
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