David Price has hailed his hero Lennox Lewis as a "massive inspiration" after working closely with the former undisputed heavyweight champion ahead of Saturday's rematch with Tony Thompson.

Price's bid for a world title shot had been gathering real momentum until Thompson derailed his plans with a shock second-round stoppage in February.

The Liverpudlian quickly seized the opportunity to make it right as promoter Frank Maloney managed to secure an immediate rematch at the same Liverpool Echo Arena venue.

Price's preparations for the second meeting have been tailored differently this time, with former heavyweight king Lewis coming on board to offer his own guidance.

Price has always faced questions about his punch resistance but insists his loss to American veteran Thompson was largely caused by a punch behind the ear, which scrambled his senses and left him unable to recover.

Lewis was renowned - and often criticised - for being a boxer rather than a brawler during his stellar career and observers will be intrigued to see how much of his influence has rubbed off on his likeable compatriot.

Price (15-1, 13KO wins) spent three weeks in Toronto with Lewis, who has travelled back to his native Britain to support his student this weekend.

"Lennox has been a big influence, as you can imagine," Price said. "He's probably my all-time favourite fighter.

"To have him around, in the gym and giving me advice, is an honour and a massive inspiration.

"But when you get in that ring you're on your own. I can't take Lennox Lewis into the ring with me. It's been more about technical things, little tricks and traits he's shown me that he picked up during his own career.

"Mentally it's my own head, I've only got one brain and nobody else can get inside it. I've got to deal with that side of it myself.

"Lennox has had a lot of input, though, and it's a compliment because he's putting his name to me, to the David Price story, when he hasn't trained anyone before. He's taking a punt in a way, which shows he's got faith in what I can do."

Thompson (37-2, 25KO wins) has great respect for Lewis - but doubts his assistance will make much difference on Saturday.

"Price could be quite a bit different in this fight," the 41-year-old said.

"But 'will it make a difference?' is the question. He can add some things to the team, to his programme, or to his strategy.

"But will it be effective against me? I don't think so."