Joe Calzaghe last night got his first taste of the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas Strip.

Hundreds of Calzaghe fans packed the Planet Hollywood Hotel just to get a glimpse of the undeniable fans' favourite.

Argus columnist Calzaghe looks lean and ready for action and, according to father and trainer Enzo Calzaghe, is in the best shape of his career.

Joe told the Argus: "I can't believe so many people turned up just to see me.

"It's been really smooth sailing so far. My lungs have adjusted to the conditions and sparring with Nathan Cleverly has been fantastic.

"The only downside is that we are living in a villa away from the Strip.

"Although that is the ideal preparation, spending every waking minute with dad reminds me why I moved out of home aged 21!"

Enzo admitted the loss of Bradley Pryce, whose criminal past means he cannot fight as scheduled, has hit Joe's preparations. Pryce was also due to be a sparring partner for Calzaghe.

"Obviously, we are very, very sad that Bradley has not been able to come over as scheduled," said Enzo.

"Bradley trained really hard for this opportunity and it has meant Nathan Cleverly has had to take much more responsibility with the sparring."

The Argus can reveal Calzaghe has not used any sparring partners other than Cleverly.

"It has been incredibly difficult trying to keep up with Joe because he is in unbelievable shape," Cleverly told the Argus.

Calzaghe and Hopkins both put their fists into cement in order for Planet Hollywood to have a permanent memento of the fight.

"This has all been a quite amazing experience, it's certainly been a lot different to fighting in front of 200 people in Newport," Calzaghe joked.

Hopkins, who did not receive anywhere near the ovation Calzaghe did, told the Argus that he doesn't care if the crowds are against him.

"Love me or hate me, it really doesn't matter. All of you reporters will acknowledge that I am a legend once I take care of your so-called champion Joe Calzaghe.

"Ultimately, I don't need this fight but I am taking it to prove to everyone that I am still the greatest fighter in the world."