The Bedford Bear makes an unlikely attempt to take the WBA world heavyweight title from Ruslan Chagaev in Dusseldorf on January 19.

Skelton, 40, confesses he is an EastEnders nut who is desperate for a part as an Albert Square extra ... after he has followed his hero Lennox Lewis by winning the world title.

He said: “I’m always looking for new goals and I want a new challenge when I finish boxing.

“I’m a big fan of EastEnders, “I never miss an episode and I’d love to get a part. I haven’t acted before but it can’t be much tougher than boxing.

“Acting is just another goal and you never know where it might lead.”

Skelton though, is concentrating more on his jab than exercising his elbow exercise in the Queen Vic as he prepares to face Chagaev — who took the title from Nico Valuev last April.

After turning pro just five years ago, Skelton has worked a minor miracle to get himself a world title shot.

The Brit is a massive underdog against the German-based Uzbek boxer.

But Skelton insisted: “To have a dream and for that dream to come true is one of the best feelings.

“The initial excitment has to be put aside quickly and focus sets in.

“Chagaev is a very tough and technically aware opponent and I need to be at my best.

“But I’m so up for this and I will grasp the chance with both hands.

“My commitment and heart will never be in doubt and I will do everything to bring that world title back to the UK.”

Source: The Sun, Great Brittain