Former world heavyweight champion Frank Bruno is looking forward to watching Sussex's amateur stars in action.

Bruno's old rival Mike Tyson is the guest of honour at the Effingham Park Hotel, Copthorne, tomorrow which also features a number of bouts involving Sussex amateurs.

Bruno, who lost twice to Tyson, made his name as an amateur before finding fame and fortune in the pro ranks.

He won the ABA heavyweight title in 1980 and holds those early days in high regard.

He said: "I enjoy watching the amateurs because they put 110 per cent into what they do. They don't like to lose which is good.

"My main aim when I was an amateur was to get a reputation for myself and then, with a bit of luck, hope a promoter would pick me up.

"It was the best way because the promoter would look after you and guide you in the right direction. When you are an unknown then it is not so easy. The ABA championship was a major stepping stone for me."

Former British and heavyweight champion Scott Welch is co-promoting the event and is also a former ABA champion, winning the same title Bruno won 12 years later.

Welch, who coaches at Hove ABC, was Bruno's sparring partner and the careers of all three men are intertwined.

Welch revealed: "I was in New York training for a fight in 1996 when I was asked if I wanted to fight in Las Vegas on the same bill as Tyson v Evander Holyfield in front of 20,000 people. That was when I first met Tyson at the Golden Gloves where he was training.

"I won my fight and then sat next to Cindy Crawford and watched Tyson. It was a memorable night."

Bruno retired after losing to Tyson for a second time ten years ago while Welch's career ended three years later.

Tyson's stuttered on until defeat against Irish journeyman Kevin McBride last June.

Like Tyson, Bruno has had problems adjusting to life outside the ring and blames the massive fame he earned from the sport.

He said: "Promoters need to put bums on seats and make people turn on the television so you could never get too much fame. Sometimes it could be a hassle but that's the name of the game and you cannot really complain.

"I think Mike is enjoying himself more than when he was when he boxed and was under pressure.

"At the moment I am ducking and diving and doing bits and pieces at my speed and enjoying myself."

A unique piece of boxing memorabilia - a WBC championship belt signed by Tyson and Bruno - will be auctioned.

Tickets for the show, including those for the boxing and Tyson Q&A only, are available on 01273 775503 or from co-promoter Lee Greenwood on 07774 520204.