Margate’s Welterweight contender Mehrdud Takalobiagashi, widely known as Takaloo to save his adopted English countryman struggling with his Iranian pronunciation, appeared in court over alleged benefit fraud alongside his wife, Sarah.

An embarrassing distraction for the affable puncher, whether the charges are proved remains to be seen but as always ‘mud sticks’ and using the news to mock Takaloo will inevitably find its way into the repertoire of opposing fans.

No word from Takaloo on the events yet.