ROOKIE boxer Kirk Goodings had the fight of his life this week when he took on olympic super-heavyweight champ Audley Harrison.

The 12-year-old fan travelled with his father to see the British hopeful who is preparing for his second professional fight at the Telewest Arena in Newcastle tomorrow.

But he never thought in his wildest dreams that he would end up sparring with a champion.

Kirk, from Sunderland, said: "I am a fan of his and I like to box myself. My dad brought me to the MetroCentre to watch him prepare for Saturday's fight.

"The next thing I knew I was in the ring. I wasn't even up to his shoulder, I think I was up to his elbow. He's like a big friendly giant.

"I didn't know what to do at first then he said 'stick your hands up' so I did.

"It was a once in a lifetime experience and I can't wait to tell my mates at the boxing club.

"I would like to say I had a chance of beating him but I think I will have to be a lot bigger first."

Kirk's dad, Robert, 35, said: "Audley asked if anyone was willing to get in the ring with him and my son put his hand up.

"I couldn't believe it but Kirk seemed to enjoy it. Not many people can say they've sparred with Audley Harrison."

Harrison is due to take on Scotland's Derrick McCafferty on Saturday.

He is being brought along gently by manager Colin McMillan and while McCafferty is a step up in class for Harrison, it would be a major shock if he didn't take care of the Scot.

Harrison said: "He can't be any fitter than I am."