Ilyas Khan will punch for victory during next week’s boxing fight with a powerhouse former heavyweight champion of the world.

The Accrington Stanley saviour will stand toe-to-toe with 6ft 4’ American Tim Witherspoon at the Dunkenhalgh Hotel next Thursday.

Witherspoon, who is five years older than Khan, 47, dismantled Frank Bruno in 1986 and has boxed legends Larry Holmes and James ‘Bonecrusher’ Smith.

But the Stanley chairman has his sights set on victory.

"I think it is going to be very tough," he said. "But I’m aiming for a points victory because I don’t think I’ll knock him out. I’m told that Tim is an accomplished fighter and professional so I doubt he’s going to prance around for three rounds. I will be wearing an extra heavy head guard just in case."

Khan has dedicated 40 hours to boxing train in the last month as well as three to four weekly runs ahead of the charity bout – which will raise funds for Leonard Cheshire Disability, of which Mr Khan is chairman.

And this week the popular millionaire was taught how to duck and weave by Commonwealth Games champion and super middleweight pro-boxer Kenny Anderson.

Speaking after team Khan’s traiing camp which was held at the Stirk House Hotel, in Gisburn, he said: "For the first time I realised just what I might have let myself in for. It’s one thing training and hitting a few pads but it’s another having someone in the ring with you.

"Kenny was really tough so who knows what it will be like with a heavyweight in the ring."

But Khan says he won’t be holding back any punches during the three round charity box-off.

"I do have a plan but it’s one I don’t want to disclose – it’s a secret plan. I’m going to go for it. I’m not going to hold back. I’ve done a few three rounders, the question is whether I can fight or not. I’m quite excited and looking forward to it. I just hope I don’t disappoint people."

Underdog Khan will box ‘in full Stanley regalia’, and is giving away four inches in height and an estimated six stones to his opponent.

Tickets are £50 per person and a table of ten is £500, which includes a meal and drinks from 6pm, at the hotel on Blackburn Road, Clayton-le-Moors.

Leonard Cheshire Disability is currently raising money for the Blackburn Cathedral Appeal.