By Michael Cotter

With stars such as David Haye and Amir Khan, Britain continues to boast some of the world’s best boxing talent, and ESPN Classic has announced the launch of a new series which celebrates Britain’s rich boxing heritage.

British Boxing Heroes looks back on some of the fighters that represented Britain gloriously throughout the 70s, 80s and 90s.  Presented by boxing expert Steve Bunce, the ten-part series is a combination of little-seen match-ups, classic fights and career-defining moments. The revealing programmes include some of Britain’s most famous boxers showcasing their raw talent in bouts before they had hit the big time, as well as contests featuring fighters in their prime.

The remaining half-hour long episodes include: “Frank Bruno: The Early Years”, with some of Bruno’s earliest encounters, including his first professional contest, up against Lupe Guerra and his first title fight (for the European Heavyweight title) against Anders Eklund; and Henry Cooper v Joe Bugner in 1971 – possibly the most notorious British fight in boxing history, which deeply divided the boxing community and the public.

Commenting on the programme, Steve Bunce said:  “Finally a boxing show with a bit of everything! It's the series with big names in their primes, some great fighters when they were unknown and some truly unforgettable nights - it's got the lot. Enjoy it.”

Schedule:

Wednesday 16th June @ 11.10pm

Charlie Magri v Rodriguez, Cerdeno

Thursday 17th June @ 11.10pm

Frank Bruno: The Early Years

Friday 18th June @ 11.10pm

Richie Woodhall: The Early Years

Monday 21st June @ 11.05pm

Chris Finnegan v Bob Foster 1972

Tuesday 22nd June @ 11.05pm

Lloyd Honeyghan v Vaca, Starling

Wednesday 23rd June @ 11.05pm

John H Stracey v Hedgemon Lewis

Thursday 24th June @ 11.05pm

Alan Minter v Kevin Finnegan

Friday 25th June @ 11.05pm

Henry Cooper v Joe Bugner 1971

Tune into ESPN Classic on Sky Channel 429 and Virgin Media Channel 533.