Boxing: Back blow for Nelson

Johnny Nelson has been forced to withdraw from the defence of his WBO world cruiserweight title defence with a back injury.

Nelson was scheduled to make the eighth defence of his crown at Sheffield's Ponds Forge International Centre on May 15.

"I am bitterly disappointed," said Nelson, who suffered the injury during training.

"This was my first fight in Sheffield for two years and I was looking forward to putting on a great performance in front of my home fans.

"I am sorry to disappoint my supporters and hope that this injury heals soon so that I can get back in the ring."

Following Nelson's withdrawal, the show has been temporarily postponed with an announcement expected shortly confirming the new date.

Nelson's opponent for the abandoned bout had not been confirmed.