Ovill McKenzie has been forced to withdraw from his challenge for the IBO World Cruiserweight Championship against Marco Huck on medical grounds. Mckenzie, 36, was due to face Germany’s Huck this Saturday 24th September at the Festhalle Arena in Frankfurt.

Derby-based McKenzie, 25-12-1 13 KO’s, narrowly missed out on claiming a World Title when he pushed former IBF ruler Emilio Ramirez to a controversial draw in Argentina last October and is devastated at missing out on another opportunity to win world honours.

“Naturally I am absolutely gutted that I have been forced to pull out of my challenge for the IBO World Title,” said McKenzie. “I had been training harder than ever and was in the shape of my life but unfortunately these things happen in boxing.”

“I was ready to give the performance of my career and cause a real upset against a great champion. I strongly believe that I would have beaten Huck brought the IBO belt back to England with me but it wasn’t to be.

“I am sorry to all of my fans who booked tickets, flights and hotels to watch me fight. Medical advice from health professionals cannot be ignored and I believe that we have made the correct decision to withdraw. I hope the fight can be rescheduled.”