Strictly's Calzaghe ordered to diet

Joe Calzaghe has been put on a diet by his Strictly Come Dancing partner.

The boxing champ has been told by professional dancer Kristina Rihanoff they can win the show but he needs to lose two stone.

Kristina told The Sun: "Joe's used to training hard and so he shouldn't have any problems with the long hours and healthy diet, but he needs to lose the weight if he's to stand a chance."

The 31-year-old Russian blonde, who danced with John Sergeant in last year's series, added: "It's fantastic to be paired with a big, strong sportsman.

"John was lovely and won people's hearts, but it's so great to have an athlete this year. He's been out of the boxing ring for a while and has put on about two stone.

"He really wants to win and I've told him that I think we're in with a really good shot. As a boxer he is used to a certain diet but it's obviously not the same as a dancer's - so I've been giving him tips on what to eat."

Joe, 37, retired as undefeated world light heavyweight champion in February.

But while all the other Strictly contestants are training hard, the Daily Mirror reports Joe is off on a lads' holiday this weekend.

The boxer apparently wants to 'clear his head' after breaking up with girlfriend Jo-Emma Larvin and is heading to Spain with a group of male friends.

Jo-Emma, 28, has vowed to support him through the show despite their five-year relationship ending last week.