Former restaurateur Marcus Sweeney has pulled out of RTÉ's celebrity boxing tournament.

The former fiancée of late model Katy French had been due to be one of 12 novice boxers competing in the charity sparring matches which takes place next month.

However, after agreeing to take part, Sweeney (31) changed his mind, telling organisers he had received a job offer overseas.

A show source said: "Marcus is a keep-fit enthusiast and would have been in perfect condition for the show. He was onboard but pulled out at short notice.

"It's the first name RTÉ have had pulling out of the show."

Programme makers are now hoping the inclusion of former Manchester United soccer player Lee Sharpe in the line up will bring some A-list glamour to the show .

Former England player turned Dancing On Ice star Sharpe (38) will be unveiled at a press launch for the programme due to take place this week.

Another high-profile name taking part is said to be businessman Seán Gallagher of RTÉ's Dragons Den, which is made by the same production company, Screentime Shin­Awil. They will be joined by former Fair City star George McMahon, comedian Alan Shortt, GAA All Star Jack Sheedy, You're A Star winner Mickey Harte and RTÉ presenters John Maguire and Robb Ross.

Last week a number of the would be fighters assembled for their first training session at the Bray Boxing Club. "It was a real mix of body shapes, sizes and ages," one contestant said.

"The programme makers are going to have a hell of a time finding boxers of equal weight to fight each other."