Calzaghe was born in Kits Yard, London, to a Sardinian father Enzo, and a Welsh mother, Jackie. The family moved to Wales when he was two years old. Their home is at Newbridge in South Wales. In September 1993 Calzaghe was signed up and made his professional debut at Cardiff Arms Park on the Lennox Lewis vs. Frank Bruno bill the following month, halting 23 fight veteran Paul Hanlon in one round.