World Title Fight Cancelled Amid Poison Allegations

Floyd Schofield's highly anticipated WBC lightweight title fight against Shakur Stevenson has been canceled just days before the event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, due to Schofield's sudden hospitalization. His father alleged in leaked messages that Schofield may have been poisoned, claiming that unnamed individuals spiked his food, which has sparked widespread speculation on social media. Despite initially appearing for media duties earlier in the week, Schofield went missing during the grand arrivals, prompting concerns about his health. With Schofield out, efforts are underway to find a replacement opponent, with Josh Padley emerging as a potential candidate. The cancellation reduces the stacked fight card, which features other major bouts including the rematch between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. Promoter Eddie Hearn had previously expressed confidence that the fight would proceed despite Schofield's absence from the arrivals.