Frank Warren’s Queensberry Promotions, following the guidelines announced by the British government and the British Boxing Board of Control, has followed other United Kingdom promoters and, as of Tuesday, postponed its upcoming events.
“Queensberry Promotions feel it would be inappropriate to proceed with any forthcoming boxing promotions in front of live audiences during April and May,” the company said in a statement. “The coronavirus situation is evolving rapidly and we will continue to follow the government’s guidelines to ensure the health and safety of the paying public, staff and the participants.”
Queensberry Promotions had two major cards on the schedule that were postponed.
The heavyweight showdown between unbeaten up-and-comers Daniel Dubois and Joe Joyce, set for April 11 at the O2 Arena in London was rescheduled for July 11, also at the O2 Arena — although that could certainly change depending on how the coronavirus situation continues to unfold.
Also, unified junior welterweight world titlist Josh Taylor’s homecoming, a mandatory defense against Thailand’s Apinun Khongsong, scheduled for May 2 (ESPN+) at the SSE Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland, is off.
“We are currently working with the SSE Hydro, Top Rank and MTK Global to identify a suitable alternative date to reschedule the event for the Scottish fans,” Queensberry Promotions said.
Also, Queensberry Promotions and Top Rank have reached an agreement for junior lightweight world titlist Jamel Herring to defend against Northern Ireland’s Carl Frampton, a former two-division world titlist, in Frampton’s hometown of Belfast in June. This event was due to be announced this week, but that has been put off.
“At this moment in time, we are still hopeful of being able to stage this event in June. However, we will monitor the ever-changing landscape surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Details of the date, venue and location will be announced in due course,” Queensberry Promotions said.