The Hitman is trying his hand at stand-up comedy. His favourite comedian was the late Bernard Manning and Ricky is following in his footsteps. He has already had a few gigs, and Nuts magazine caught up with him for a chat.

Hi Ricky! Whats all this stand-up lark about then?…………’I've been doing after-dinner speaking for quite some time now but this is the first time i’ve done stand-up in the theatres. Its something new and its what i’m all about - going out and meeting the fans, and i like to think i’m quite funny. But i’ll let everyone make up their own mind!’

Is it something you’ve always wanted to do?………………………………’Yeah boxing gives me a buzz, but so does this!’

Is it scarier than boxing?……………..’Not at all. At least when you’re up there with the mic, no one’s gonna hit you! I don’t get nervous at all.’

Is that because the audience are to scared too make trouble?…………….’Nah! I enjoy it and they’ll make their own mind up if they like it or not. Its just me being normal really.’

How do you deal with hecklers?…………’I love it. The more they heckle, the better. I’ve got my one-liners ready.’

Do you have any comedy inspirations?…………..’Bernard Manning god rest his soul. He was a very close friend of mine and a good friend of the family.’

Do you practise in the gym?…………’No, it comes naturally to me. I think some people expect boxers to be a bit thick so i enjoy proving that i’m actually quite intelligent.’

Have you thought about using your joke-telling as a technique in the ring to put people off?……..’That’s not a bad idea, throw them a few gags and have a laugh. But no, it’s just something i really enjoy.’