A member of the Calzaghe family has said Enzo Calzaghe, trainer and father of former world champion Joe, is "very poorly" in hospital after it was reported the 69-year-old had died.

Scores of tributes poured in for Enzo on Friday night after it was incorrectly reported that he had died, with tributes coming from many big names from the boxing world.

The Italian-born coach led his son through his glittering 46-fight career that saw him win the WBO, WBC and WBA super-middleweight crowns, after training from Newbridge Boxing Club.

(Image: Huw Evans Picture Agency) (Image: Getty Images)

Calzaghe coached other big names in the sport including Enzo Maccarinelli and Gavin Rees during his long career as a corner man.

But a family member, Carrie Calzaghe, issued a statement via social media to say reports confirming his death were wrong.

Writing on Facebook, she said: "Enzo Calzaghe my uncle, has not passed away, this is false news, he is alive but very poorly.

"Please allow space for our family at this time. He is alive and still fighting. We will keep you posted and let you know how he is doing when we can.

"Please allow and respect our privacy at this time Thank you. Team Calzaghe. Please share."

(Image: Nick Potts/PA Wire)

Enzo helped Joe retire as Britain’s only undefeated world champion back in 2012.

His decision to retire ended a successful partnership with his father and the pair were unbeaten in 18 years together as amateur and professional.