Boxing Showdown Called Off
In a disappointing turn of events for boxing fans, the highly anticipated showdown between Adam Azim and Gustavo Lemos has been called off due to injuries sustained by both fighters. Initially scheduled to headline at the Copper Box Arena in London on January 31, the bout was meant to be a crucial eliminator for the IBF’s light-welterweight ranking, with the contest being televised on BBC platforms.
Injuries and Event Update
Boxxer, the promoting company, reported that Gustavo Lemos incurred an injury first, prompting them to seek a backup. However, Azim, who boasts an impressive undefeated record of 14 fights with 11 knockouts, sustained his own injury during a final sparring session. Following a medical scan, it was confirmed that he would not be fit to compete.
Despite this setback, the event is still set to proceed with other matchups, including Francesca Hennessy’s clash against Ellie Bouttell, which serves as a final eliminator for the WBC bantamweight title currently held by Cherneka Johnson. This event marks a significant occasion as it will be the first time in over twenty years that professional boxing is broadcast in prime time on BBC television, following the successful fight between Jeamie ‘TKV’ Tshikeva and Frazer Clarke back in November, which showcased the new partnership between the BBC and Boxxer.
Fight Card for January 31
Also featured on the January 31 card are several other bouts across various weight classes, promising an exciting evening for boxing enthusiasts even in the absence of the headline fight. Here’s a look at the update on the fight card scheduled for January 31:
- Francesca Hennessy vs. Ellie Bouttell (bantamweight)
- Gradus Kraus vs. Boris Crighton (light-heavyweight)
- Joel Kodua vs. Joe Garside (welterweight)
- Archie Sharp vs. Hassan Azim (light-welterweight)
- Ergal Elezaj vs. Will Howe (heavyweight)
As fans await the rescheduling of Azim and Lemos, hopes remain high for a thrilling matchup in the near future that might propel Azim closer to world title contention.
