Scott Harrison has boxing licence application rejected by BBBofC

Former world featherweight champion met with the board on Wednesday, but was told he had not supplied all the relevant paperwork.

“They have had every piece of paper they have needed. I don’t know what’s happened.” Harrison told BBC Scotland.

“I am still in the dark about what’s happening with my future.”

Harrison 34, says he has only received the news by letter and has not had his telephone calls or questions answered as he attempts to get an explanation of why he has been denied the chance to earn a living in the industry he knows best.

Harrison also failed in a previous attempt to regain his licence in 2008 and complains that the latest decision by the BBBofC has put him “back to square one again”.

“I’ve got a family, three kids to provide for, which makes it more annoying,” said a disappointed Harrison.

“I feel good,” he said. “I feel confident of winning the world title again and being a three-time world champion, only if the British Boxing Board of Control return my licence.

The Scotsman beat Victor Santiago to become WBO featherweight champion in 2002, lost it in 2003 to Manuel Medina before regaining his title in a rematch with Medina later the same year.

However, after pulling out of a title defence in May 2006, he checked into the Priory Clinic in London citing problems with depression and alcohol.

He was later stripped of his WBO title and his licence to box – and declared bankrupt.

Harrison failed with a previous attempt to regain his licence in 2008 and complains that the latest decision has put him “back to square one again”.

In prison Harrison kept himself fit and since his release from incarceration he has been training to return to the ring, but it looks like his efforts are in vain! – He is likely to appeal the boards decision.

By Chris Maylett