Shakur Stevenson has a new foe for his Riyadh Season debut after Floyd Schofield withdrew through illness.
Stevenson was set to defend his WBC lightweight world title against American rival, Schofield on the undercard of the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol in Riyadh on Saturday.
However, concern begun over the status of the bout on Tuesday after Schofield was absent at the Grand Arrivals event.
Stevenson’s promoter, Eddie Hearn said ‘Kid Austin’ was training to make a check weight on Wednesday, although insider Dan Rafael later confirmed that the 22-year-old was admitted to hospital through illness.
The British Boxing Board of Control, who oversee all Riyadh Season events, decided to withdraw the New Jersey man from the bout, who was later discharged from hospital.
In a statement, Schofield’s promoter Golden Boy said: “Yesterday, Floyd “Kid Austin” Schofield Jr. fell ill and was transported to the hospital as a precautionary measure.
“In the interest of Schofield’s health and safety, the British Boxing Board of Control made the decision to cancel his scheduled bout against Shakur Stevenson.
“Schofield has since been discharged from the hospital and is awaiting the results of his medical evaluation.
“We extend our gratitude to His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, SELA, and the medical professionals who provided Schofield with care.”
Stevenson, 27, will remain on the card though is now defending his title against unbeaten, late-replacement, Josh Padley.
The 29-year-old Brit is ranked at #12 with the WBC and scored a career-best win last time out, upsetting Mark Chamberlain at Wembley Stadium in December.
Stevenson makes the second defence of the belt he won in November 2023 and will hope that victory will lead him to a unification with WBA champion, Gervonta Davis, who defends his crown against Lamont Roach on March 1 in Brooklyn.
“I’m gone catch yall Saturday tho I still got a job to do ion got time for the trolls I’m locked in.
“It’s still a man in front of me who would love to take my spot it’s work time!! #Feb22.”
