• Boxing

Injured Klitschko pulls out of Chisora title defence

ESPN staff
December 8, 2010
Wladimir Klitschko showed no sign of pain during Wednesday's open workout © Getty Images
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Wladimir Klitschko has pulled out of his world heavyweight title defence against Dereck Chisora due to a back injury.

Klitschko had been set to fight Chisora in Mannheim on Saturday, but a torn muscle in his back has seen the bout abandoned. The Ukrainian now faces more than a month on the sidelines before he can begin training.

The news may get even worse for Chisora, who was set for something of a dream opportunity to fight for a world title after only 14 victories. Richard Schaefer of Golden Boy promotions admits the bout may not be rescheduled, with WBA champion David Haye now a serious consideration for Klitschko's next fight.

"He tore a muscle in his back and has had back spasms," said Schaefer, CEO of Golden Boy Promotions.

"I have spoken to Shelley Finkel [Klitschko's US adviser] and if we can make a Klitschko fight with David Haye we will do that next and if not Wladimir will revert back to fighting Chisora."

Schaefer had earlier revealed that Wembley or Las Vegas are the planned destinations for a future Haye v Klitschko encounter.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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