Watch: David 'The Hayemaker' Haye's knockout trip to Telford

The former world heavyweight champion was at Telford International Centre yesterday at the National Bed Show.

He was a guest on the Sealy stand, where he drew a lot of attention and was happy to pose for photographs and sign autographs.

David said that this was his first trip to Telford, but that he had received a warm welcome and had enjoyed meeting boxing fans. But his appearance on the Sealy stand had significance, he said, because he believes that the importance of getting a good night's sleep should not be underestimated.

He said: "For an athlete, sleep is one of the key components of good training, perhaps the most important, because that is when your body recuperates and rejuvenates. I try to get between eight and 10 hours' sleep per night and ensure the room is pitch black, there is no noise and I am lying on a good bed."

The boxer is now on the comeback trail after three years out of the ring and said he has been in training for months.

After having reconstructive surgery following a shoulder injury, he said he wants to return to the ring in top condition.

He said: "I am getting on top of my injuries and my ambitions haven't been diluted by being away, I still want to fight at the highest level.

"I have fought the biggest heavyweight in history, have been world champion and am ready to do that again.

"I have enjoyed my break from the ring, which gave me a chance to look at boxing from the outside as a spectator, but I do miss the competition."

Holly Venning, brand marketing manager for Sealy Beds, said that their stand had been buzzing due to David Haye's presence. She said: "It's a huge thing having the bed show in Telford and our stand has been crowded all day.

"Having David here emphasises how important sleep is to top athletes and how the quality of your mattress can make a difference to the quality of your sleep."