Russian boxer David Avanesyan said that he regrets the cancellation of his upcoming defense due to the threat of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Avanesyan was scheduled to make a defense of his European (EBU) welterweight title against undefeated British boxer Josh Kelly.

The fight between ex-WBA champion Avanesyan and rising contender Kelly was initially to be held on March 28 in London. This is not the first cancellation of the fight: as it was originally going to take place on December 8 in Sheffield, but was canceled after Kelly withdrew at the last minute with an illness.

“My fight has been canceled due to recent events related to the spread of coronavirus. We can see that all of the mass events in the world of sports are also being canceled, but this does not take away the regret that I feel, because I gave a lot of strength and energy to this important preparation for myself. In any case, the safety and health of people is the most important factor in any business. Take care of yourself. And most importantly, do not panic," Avanesyan said.

Avanesyan's career has been rising since he secured back to back knockout wins over rising knockout artist Kerman Lejarraga.

The record of Avanesyan includes 26 wins (14 by knockout), three losses and a draw. Kelly has a record of 10 wins (6 by KO) and a draw.

Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org.