Adam Azim`s scheduled fight against Eliot Chavez has been cancelled just hours before the event was set to start. The pair were slated to compete tonight in Barnsley on the undercard of Callum Simpson`s European title bout.
Azim, 22, holds an undefeated record and secured the IBO light-welterweight title in February. He accepted this fight on short notice after his victory over former world champion Sergey Lipinets.
However, Chavez encountered issues when it was revealed he had used a sauna to reduce weight – a method prohibited by the British Boxing Board of Control. Promoters Boxxer issued a statement:
“The British Boxing Board of Control has withdrawn permission for Eliot Chavez to face Adam Azim tonight in Barnsley following concerns raised by the Mexican Boxing Commission relating to Chavez`s use of a sauna to make weight – a practice that is prohibited by the board.”
Azim reacted immediately on social media, posting an angry face emoji. Fans offered their sympathy:
“Sorry to hear that champ. Was looking forward to it.”
Another commented on the circumstances:
“This is what happens when you fight someone on like a week or two notice.”
Chavez previously went nine rounds with Harlem Eubank in 2022. Azim had aimed to use this bout to demonstrate his capabilities in the division.
The 22-year-old had previously stated his willingness to fight anyone on a week`s notice, even two-weight world champion Devin Haney.
Azim told Sky Sports: “I would fight Haney next week. I just feel he`s moving around more and doesn`t want to initiate attacks. He is a top-level fighter but I don`t think he`s the same fighter that he was before. If he`s running on the backfoot, throwing one jab every two rounds, why not? For me I can fight front foot and back foot. Haney, I think he`s got enough power just to keep someone off, but I don`t think he has that one-punch power. But I think if I was going to fight him I think I`d beat him with speed.”
Meanwhile, tonight`s main event at Oakwell, featuring Callum Simpson against Ivan Zucco for the European super-middleweight championship, is expected to proceed. Their ring walks in South Yorkshire are anticipated around 9:30 PM.
