Ben Wilkes pulls out of Cello Renda fight
Essington's Ben Wilkes has pulled out of his Sky Sports televised bout with Cello Renda in Birmingham next week through injury.
The two were set to go toe-to-toe in a 10-round eliminator for the English light middleweight title next Saturday night,
It would have come in the backdrop of the Genting Arena with the cameras rolling live, but promoters Matchroom Boxing are now looking for another opponent to Renda.
Wilkes has cited "a few injuries" as the reason for his decision in what was regarded as his big break, after nine wins from 10 in a stop-start pro career that began in 2009.
He added: "I will not be be 100 per cent for the fight. Thank you for the tremendous support I've received by everyone.
"Anyone who's had tickets, get in touch and I'll refund the money. Thanks again for all your support, it's been hugely appreciated."
Stourbridge's Sam Eggington tops the bill defending his British and Commonwealth welterweight titles against mandatory challenger Bradley Skeete.
Another major domestic title fight and two clashes for Midlands belts also appear, with both Yafai brothers in action.
British champion Kal is closing in on the world stage and will tackle Moises Flores in an official 12-round eliminator for Kohei Kono's WBA super flyweight title.
Younger sibling Gamal goes after his first domestic crown, challenging for Bobby Jenkinson's newly-won Commonwealth super bantamweight strap.
More Brummies step through the ropes for area honours and a Battle of Birmingham will come at lightweight, as Michael Rooney and Marcus Ffrench meet for the vacant strap.
New Midlands titlist Karl Wiggins, who knocked out Stafford's Rob Hunt in two rounds to take the crown, defends at welter for the first time against Derby's Ryan Fields.
Tickets are on general sale priced at £40, £60 and £100 from www.theticketfactory.com. VIP upgrades, costing £150, can be bought exclusively at www.matchroomboxing.com.
