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Former four-weight world boxing champion Roy Jones was scheduled to face Liverpool MMA and boxing veteran Tony Moran next week, Sept. 12, at the Aintree Equestrian Centre in Liverpool.

Jones was present for a pre-fight press conference in July, however VB Promotions revealed this evening that the decision to cancel the bout was made after Jones failed to show up at the airport for his flight to the UK.

It was noted that the Floridian has been pictured on social media for the majority of the past seven days attending media events in Russia, with VB Promotions being told that the 46-year-old has secured a world title shot. This will would likely be against Polish WBO cruiserweight champion Krzysztof Glowacki who Jones had recently been pursuing publicly.

The anticipated fight had captured the imagination of local fans and media, not only because of Jones’ starpower, but in great part due to the Cinderella story of Moran who had battled homelessness while still pursuing the dream fight.

Moran’s story had even caught the attention of legendary coach Enzo Calzaghe who invited Moran to the Calzaghe home in Wales for a weekend of training.

While the main event has been cancelled, the show will go on and has been moved to the Olympia in Liverpool on the same night.

“I’m extremely disappointed and saddened by the whole thing,” said promoter Stephen Vaughan.

“We had invested a lot of money and time into this event, as we wanted to make it a great occasion for the fans and the game alike.

“But sadly, it wasn’t to be and legal advice is to be sought surrounding the circumstances in which it has happened.”

Moran will still be in action, but the card will now be topped by Paul Economides’ WBFed Inter-Continental super bantamweight title clash against Prosper Ankrah in addition to Tasif Khan’s first title challenge as he battles Isaac Quaye for the vacant WBFed International super flyweight title.

A fully supporting undercard is in place, including Russian super bantamweight David Agadzhanyan and local favourites Nick Quigley, Ryan Vaughan and Ryan Moorhead among others.

Fans who require a refund are encouraged to contact the original point of sale.