Denzel Bentley’s British title challenge goes ahead – but Chris Bourke’s bout off as opponent’s camp has positive Covid-19 result

BY RICHARD CAWLEY

Denzel Bentley will still challenge Mark Heffron for the vacant British middleweight title tomorrow night – but three positive Covid-19 tests have affected the undercard.

It means that fellow South Londoner Chris Bourke’s bout is off. The Streatham bantamweight had been due to face Michael Rambaletsa.

But Rambaletsa, Kaisy Khademi and Masood Abdulah have all had positive tests in their camps.

Battersea’s Bentley and Heffron battled to a unanimous draw when they last met in September.

Promoter Queensberry Promotions said: “The rest of the show’s participants, who have been isolating at a London base this week, have tested negative and the show will continue as planned with Mark Heffron and Denzel Bentley still main eventing for a chance to claim the vacant British middleweight title.”

Promoter Frank Warren added: “These are unprecedented times, and it is a huge shame to lose three great fights. I’m obviously gutted for the boys who have worked hard for this week, but I am pleased to see the excellent safety measures implemented by my team and the board are working so effectively.

“I am thankful to our partners at BT Sport for working with us to ensure the event can continue safely, and fans can look forward to a cracking main event between Mark and Denzel.

“We wish those affected a speedy recovery.”