Valuev-Chagaev bout in Helsinki called off

Source: Agencies | May 31, 2009, Sunday |

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RUSLAN Chagaev failed a "medical requirement" on Friday, forcing his challenge for Nikolai Valuev's WBA heavyweight title to be called off a day before the fight.

Finnish officials said "Chagaev has been unable to fulfill the Finnish Boxing Federation's medical requirements," and gave no further details.

Local media reports said Chagaev had a hepatitis infection and that all 11 bouts on the card were canceled.

Federation president Pertti Augustin refused to offer explanations, saying "it's against Finnish law to do so."

Undefeated Chagaev would have netted 55 percent of the US$2.8 million purse.

It's the third rematch between the pair that's failed to start since Chagaev of Kazakhstan gave Valuev - the 2.14-meter Russian - his only pro defeat by decision in April 2007. The previous two rematches were called off because Chagaev ruptured an Achilles tendon in training.

After Chagaev, as WBA titleholder, withdrew from the two scheduled rematches he was named "champion in recess," and the WBA vacated the title. But because of his status, Chagaev had to fight Valuev by the end of June.

Boxing

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Valuev-Chagaev bout in Helsinki called off

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