Daniel Dubois will return to the ring in the next two to three months after the devastating blow of having to pull out of this weekend’s clash with Joseph Parker.
Daniel was in great shape but unfortunately picked up a virus in the last few days and the medication he was taking to fight it off made him drowsy.
After being assessed by the British Boxing Board of Control doctor, it was rightly decided he wasn’t fit to fight.
We don’t take risks with our fighters. If you’re not fit, you don’t get in the ring as it’s a dangerous sport and you must be at your best.
Daniel was far from it and although it is hard news to take it was the only decision that could be made.
Parker still has a great fight now he’s facing Martin Bakole, who bravely stepped in at short notice.
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Daniel will be back out soon and prove what I believe – that he’s the best superstar heavyweight from the UK.
Speaking of next superstars, Hamzah Sheeraz will also get his moment tonight to become a world champion.
Sheeraz takes on Carlos Adames for the WBC middleweight title. The green and gold belt in one of the sport’s most prestigious divisions.
Hamzah has been with us all the way and it is great to see a top prospect turning into a champion. We’ve backed him and he has delivered. Tonight he will get his reward.
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This is not an easy fight but Hamzah has shown in every bout we’ve put him in that he learns and improves. He’s been well matched all the way. Now it is time for the crowning glory.
It’s a spectacular card out here in Riyadh with every fight one you cannot miss. That’s despite the withdrawal of Daniel.
Zhilei Zhang against Agit Kabayel is a terrific heavyweight showdown. While Joshua Buatsi against Callum Smith opens the show at light-heavyweight. Josh Padley was drafted in to face Shakur Stevenson for the WBC lightweight title and Vergil Ortiz Jnr is up against Israil Madrimov.
Make sure you tune in.