Setback for Joe Ward as fight in Canada is postponed

What would have been Joe Ward's first fight of 2022 was called off the day before it was due to take place.

The Moate boxer was preparing to lace up the gloves in Quebec, Canada, tonight (Friday) for what would have been the first scheduled eight-round bout of his professional career.

However, it was announced yesterday (Thursday) that the fight would not be going ahead due to an issue with Ward's opponent, the Mexican veteran Oscar Riojas.

Posting on social media, the local 28-year-old said the news was "disappointing" but he hoped he would be in the ring soon.

"Sometimes these things happen in boxing, and we will move forward quickly," he wrote.

"I will be fighting very soon and will keep you all updated with the news. Thank you all for your continued support!"

Ward was a world-class amateur boxer who has a professional record of six wins and one defeat (3 ko's). The sole blemish on his record came when he suffered a dislocated knee during his pro debut in October 2019.

His last fight was in New York's Madison Square Garden on December 11, where he recorded a first round TKO win against Britton Norwood.