Richar Abril calls off Derry Mathews title fight again
Thursday 9 April 2015 14:25, UK
Derry Mathews' world title fight against Richar Abril has been called off for a second time.
The Liverpool lightweight was was initially due to fight for Abril's WBA belt on March 6 only for the Cuban to withdraw with suspected dengue fever.
The fight was rearranged for April 18, but a statement from Queensbury Promotions confirmed Abril has again backed out.
It read: "We have been made aware of Abril's withdrawal and are in discussions with the World Boxing Association and representatives of Richar Abril as to the current position of the world title as this is the second time he has withdrawn from this fight with less than two weeks before fight night."
Mathews could yet fight for the WBA title this month, according to the statement, which went on: "We expect to hear from the WBA shortly and will make an announcement through this office.
"However, we fully expect Mathews to contest a version of the WBA World Championship on Saturday April 18."
Mathews later tweeted: "Am in this sport to fight the best but in my eyes Abril doesn't fancy this fight.
"Have spent 12 weeks away from my wife, family and home - he could have been a man and told me weeks ago. But I have the best manager and team around me who will get the best for me."
Mathews landed his first world title fight after Abril's original opponent Anthony Crolla suffered serious injuries when confronting suspected burglars in December.
