The 38-year-old former lightweight champion’s younger sibling, William Crolla, 25, has followed in his sporting footsteps and the super-welterweight admitted they have experienced a lot of confusion from people about their relationship.

Asked the worst rumour he has heard about himself, William told Boxing News magazine: “That I am Anthony’s son. He was fuming.

“He’d have been 13 when he had me.

“I thought it was funny.”

The two brothers are very close.

Asked his best friend in boxing, William said: “Anthony Crolla. I am with him every single day.”

And the Southpaw admitted it was his sibling that lead to his own sporting career.

He explained “I used to go to the Fox ABC with Anthony. I had my first fight when I was 11.

“I looked up to Anthony and that was all I ever wanted to do.”

William hopes to emulate his older sibling’s success with title belts in the future.

Asked where he sees himself in a decade, he said: “Still boxing and hopefully topping the bill.

“I think I will win a British title at the very least.”