A football agent raised over £7000 by fighting in the ring.

Barry Whelan, 35, competed in a white-collar boxing match at Watford Leisure Centre on July 14.

He fought for the national social mobility charity, Leadership Through Sport & Business (LTSB).

Mr Whelan said: "LTSB is a charity very close to the USM family.

“Together we’re delighted to have raised over £7,000, which will make a difference to underprivileged young people on the programme, giving them a real chance at fulfilling their dreams.

"I cannot thank everybody who donated enough, the night itself was a terrific experience for myself and for everyone who came to support.”

Mr Whelan spent 16 weeks training and raised a total of £7,150, winning his bout on points.

During the bout, Anthony Joshua, ex-Chelsea player Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and QPR defender Alex Baptiste were ringside to support Mr Whelan.

Deputy chief executive of LTSB, Pete Ward said: “Barry gave everything he had in the ring and did LTSB very proud.

“The amount he raised is a fantastic achievement and will help us continue to give our young people the opportunities they deserve.

“Our partnership with USM has been brilliant so far, and we look forward to a long-lasting relationship with them.”