Adam Ant is gearing up for his first UK tour in 25 years by having sparring sessions with former boxing world champion Chris Eubank.

The 'Stand And Deliver' singer is due to kick off the jaunt at Brighton Concorde 2 on May 16 and has also pencilled in appearances at London's Hard Rock Calling, GuilFest and Latitude this summer.

Speaking to the News Of The World, Ant said the eccentric former WBO Super Middleweight World Champion has been giving him some encouraging words.

"I love boxing - and he [Eubank] says there's a look in my eyes onstage that says: 'Don't mess with me'," Ant commented.

"I've missed being onstage, I've missed touring and now I want my title crown back."

Ant also said he plans to reform Adam & The Ants in "a couple of years".

"Some of the 'Prince Charming' line-up will be back - if they can make it through boot camp. I'm a hard task master," he said.

Ant, who was sectioned under the Mental Health Act last year, has previously challenged Liam Gallagher to a fight.

"I'd like to have a fight with him whichever way he wants: physically, mentally I'd beat him in any way, shape or form, I know that," he said of plans for a scrap with the Beady Eye man.