A former boxing champion from Cwmcarn has hung up his gloves to paint heavyweights rather than fight them.

Patrick Killian has already captured Mike Tyson on canvas, and this Monday he will be painting former world champion Evander Holyfield live at The Centre in Slough.

He has met Mike Tyson several times and painted him in person: “Tyson saw a poster of a painting I produced of him in 1995 and liked it a lot. He wanted a number of posters for his tour, which I was happy to do.”

Mr Killian added that the last time he met Mr Tyson “he took time to look at my work and have a chat and he was also happy to sign a number of originals. On the times I've met him this was the most relaxed he had been and seemed happy to chat.

“I don't think I'll mention the biting off the ear though.”

Local artist Mr Killian grew up in Cwmcarn in Gwent and boxed for the town’s boxing club for a number of years, competing internationally and winning an amateur title in 1997.

He now lives and works at his home in Westend, Abercarn.

Mr Killian said: “I had a huge passion for sport and boxing in my teens and early twenties so it seemed natural to use my artistic talent to capture these boxing greats on canvas.

“Joe Calzaghe, Enzo Maccarinelli and Gavin Rees all own my work. Some others include Liam Neeson and Mike Tyson.

“I love capturing those special moments in oil and seeing them come to life. I think the pieces I produce will always connect with individuals, young or old.”

Original works by Mr Killian sell from £400 to over £1000.

‘The Real Dead’ former undisputed heavyweight champion Mr Holyfield will hold a Q&A session at the event on Monday and when Mr Killian’s work will be auctioned.

Mr Killian said: "It's a fantastic opportunity to meet Evander, and produce work for this event. After meeting Mike Tyson, who fought him for the championship, that’s two of the greatest heavyweights I've now met.”

Art fans can also view his work at the 6 Artists/6 Visions exhibition in Cardiff at the Gate Arts Centre in Roath until October 11.