The rematch between world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko has been postponed until October after Fury sprained his ankle while out running.
Fury, who dethroned Klitschko last November in Dusseldorf via unanimous decision, was set to fight on 9 July but has been told to rest for "six or seven weeks" to allow the injury to heal.
"About 10 days ago I was running in the Lake District and went over on my ankle," Fury said in a video posted to his Instagram account.
@Tyson_Fury @frankwarren_tv @boxnationtv pic.twitter.com/xTZnBGfpmq
— peter fury. (@peterfury) June 24, 2016
Fight will remain in Manchester with same venue.
— peter fury. (@peterfury) June 24, 2016
"I've had x-rays and MRI scans and all that stuff, and they said it's not broken but badly sprained and to keep off it for six or seven weeks.
"I tried to still train a bit, but I had a second opinion a week later and had the same advice, so the fight will be postponed.
"Sorry to all my fans to let you all down, but injuries do happen and it's one of those things. Apologies to everyone who's booked dates, but the fight will be on as soon as possible.
"That's all I know at the moment, but the fight's still going ahead. As soon as the ankle's better we will reschedule."
A video posted by Tyson Fury (@gypsyking101) on
"Of course I am currently totally disappointed about the cancellation," Klitschko said of the news.
"As well for my fans I'm very sorry who were all very excited for this rematch. But one thing is also clear: Then I'll get my belt a few weeks later."
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