Boxing legend Michael Watson has spoken out after a “violent” attack by two men who dragged him along a road while they tried to drive off in his car.

Mr Watson, 51, described the suspected carjacking in The Ridgeway, in Chingford, on Thursday (February 16) as "a very frightening, violent situation which came out of the blue".

The former boxer was left partially disabled after suffering a near-fatal brain injury during a WBO super-middleweight title clash with Chris Eubank in 1991.

His carer and friend, Lennard Ballack, was driving the car just before 5pm when would-be thieves slammed into the back of it.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

The moment after the attack in Chingford

The thugs then got out of the car, sprayed the two in the face with a noxious substance and dragged the former world title challenger from his seat.

Watson was taken to hospital with cuts to his back while his friend was also seen by doctors after one of the suspects sprayed a substance in his eyes.

They were released on Saturday, and are now recovering at home.

In a statement, Watson thanked fans for their support and urged for witnesses to come forward.

He said: "I am overwhelmed with all the messages I have received and the kindness shown to me and I would like to thank everyone for their concern.

"Lennard and I were involved in a very frightening, violent situation which came out of the blue in broad daylight in the middle of the afternoon.

"I don't want anyone else to have to go through that so I'm asking you to help the police in finding these men and bring them to justice."

Friend to both victims, Andy Brace, said the “great men” have been left “traumatised” by the shocking attack.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Lennard, Michael and Andy 

He said: “Lennard told me he can't believe Michael is still alive.”

The owner of sports memorabilia shop, Worldwide Signings, in Romford Shopping Hall, has been inundated with people sending donations and cards for the victims.

Mr Brace said all cards and messages of support will be read out to the pair, while donations will help them make a full recovery.

For more information and to dontate, head to Mr Brace's JustGiving page.

Well-wishers can send cards to his shop, Worldwide Signings, Romford Shopping Hall, 43 Market Place, Romford, Essex, RM1 3AB.