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Boxing

Dan Azeez explains why he pulled out of Josh Buatsi fight

DAZN
Dan Azeez explains why he pulled out of Josh Buatsi fightDAZN
The pair are set to finally meet in the ring.

Dan Azeez revealed why he pulled out of last year’s fight with Joshua Buatsi.

The pair were meant to fight in 2023, but Azeez had a back problem and was unable to compete.

"I wasn't fit to box," Azeez told Sky Sports. "I feel good, pleased it's been rescheduled because it's a very important fight."

The two meet this weekend at Wembley Arena in an eliminator for the WBA light heavyweight championship (live on Peacock in the US).

The winner, in theory, should go on to fight current champion Dmitry Bivol, but they may have to wait as he looks set to fight unified champion Artur Beterbiev to settle the undisputed status in the division.

"Two undefeated fighters," Azeez added. "Like Riddick Bowe vs Evander Holyfield, they were undefeated fighters. You can't let them fights go. I'm so happy I was able to get the fight on.

"Josh is the perfect dance partner. From our spars, they're never boring so I can't imagine what this is going to be like. 10 ounce gloves. He can whack. I've got a bit of dig on me too.

"This is someone I know, do you know what I mean? But if that's what he wants to think, that's up to him. I know the truth.

"He's an Olympian, he's used to everything going his way and when it didn't, threw a tantrum. But it's fine. It's not that deep. He can let it out on February 3.

"He's used to everything going his way and it not happening when he wanted it, it might have rattled him a bit."

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