Thread: Valuev v Chagaev called off

Saturday night's WBA heavyweight clash between Nikolay Valuev and Ruslan Chagaev has been called off after concerns emerged over Chagaev's health.

The Uzbek was found to be suffering from a mild form of Hepatitis B, a condition he has had before. In fact, a bout with Sultan Ibragimov in 2007 was called off for the same reason.

It is understood that Valuev was given the option of fighting Chagaev and receiving a hepatitis vaccination within 24 hours, but he declined.

“I would have loved to make this fight but given those circumstances it is not possible,” Valuev said.

“Unfortunately, we have no other choice but to call the whole show off,” Sauerland Event General Manager Chris Meyer said. “Our top priority is Nikolay’s health and it could not be guaranteed.”

Setanta Sports' Steve Bunce believes this cancellation is a lost opportunity for Chagaev to boost his profile.

"I fancied Chagaev to win that fight more impressively because I think Chagaev has realised that to be a top quality heavyweight at the moment, you need far more than just having that belt around your waist," Bunce said. "I think he might have been the first man to wear down Valuev. If he had managed to do that, it would have elevated Chagaev."


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