Adam Azim`s scheduled boxing match against Eliot Chavez has been cancelled merely hours before the fighters were set to enter the ring.
The contest was planned for tonight in Barnsley, appearing on the undercard of Callum Simpson`s European title bout against Ivan Zucco.
The 22-year-old Azim maintains an undefeated record and secured the IBO light-welterweight championship in February. He accepted this fight on short notice following his victory over former world champion Sergey Lipinets.
However, Chavez faced difficulties when it was discovered he had used a sauna to reduce weight – a method prohibited by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC).
Promoters Boxxer confirmed the cancellation via a statement: “The British Boxing Board of Control has withdrawn permission for Eliot Chavez to face Adam Azim tonight in Barnsley following concerns raised by the Mexican Boxing Commission relating to Chavez`s use of a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 quickly responded on social media, posting an angry face emoji to express his frustration.
Fans reacted online, with one expressing sympathy: “Sorry to hear that, champ. I was really looking forward to it.” Another commented on the circumstances: “This is what happens when you agree to fight someone on like a week or two`s notice.”
Eliot Chavez previously went nine rounds with Harlem Eubank in 2022.
Azim had intended to use this bout to further demonstrate his capabilities within the division. The 22-year-old had boldly stated his willingness to fight anyone on just a week`s notice, even mentioning two-weight world champion Devin Haney.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Azim said regarding Haney: “I would fight Haney next week. I just feel like he moves around a lot and doesn`t want to initiate attacks. He`s a high-level fighter, but I don`t think he`s the same fighter he was before.”
He continued: “If he`s retreating and throwing one jab every two rounds, why not? As for me, I can fight off the front foot and the back foot. Haney, I believe he has enough power to keep someone off him, but I don`t think he possesses that one-punch knockout power. But I think if I were to fight him, I believe I would defeat him with speed.”
Tonight`s main event at Oakwell features Callum Simpson taking on Ivan Zucco for the European super-middleweight championship. The boxers are expected to make their ring walks in South Yorkshire around 9:30 PM local time.
Oliver Croft