Saunders withdraws from middleweight title fight against Murray

The training injury has forced organisers to reschedule the fight for Saturday June 23 at London's O2 Arena, which will be Saunders' fourth defence of his WBO crown.

Saunders, who produced a career-best performance in December against David Lemieux, admitted he was disappointed, but said he had to put his health first.

"I'm gutted for Martin and I'm gutted for the fans," said the 28-year-old.

"I felt my hand go during a session this week and sought medical advice immediately.

"Unfortunately I've been told that I can't punch anything for four weeks so we've been left with no choice but to withdraw from the date.

"This is an extremely tough sport and these things can happen.

"It is vital that I'm firing on all cylinders heading into this fight but for now it's all about recovering properly and focusing on the new June 23 date."

He assured fans that trainer Dominic Ingle would have him fit for June and also thanked his promoter Frank Warren for quickly rearranging the fight.

Disappointed fans will be able to use their original tickets for the new date in June, Warren promised.

"It is extremely frustrating as tickets were going very well and we were all geared up for a fantastic evening of boxing on April 14," said Warren. "I apologise to all of the fans that have bought tickets."

Sportsbeat 2018