Traffic jam – Cathy McAleer’s drive through fight delayed

Cathy McAleer’s return to the ring has been pushed back by three weeks.

The Belfast bantam was set to trade leather for the first time since February on a unique show in Sheffield.

The former MMA and kickboxing standout was scheduled to fight for the fifth time in the boxing ring on the UK’s first ever drive-in boxing show on November 20.

However, with the announcement of a month-long, second national lockdown, that original date has been scuppered.

The Sheffield Arena show, which will be broadcast on Eurosport, has been pushed backed to December 11.

Confirming the news show promoter Dennis Hobson explained the original line up with be retained, meaning McAleer [4(1)-0] will get out.

“Obviously the lockdown news was a blow, and meant that the November 20th date for the show was impossible to go ahead.

“My thoughts are though that the lockdown won’t hopefully continue past the scheduled month and that, even if there are restrictions after that, they won’t be a threat to the show.

“So, myself and Steve Crump have managed to get a new date of December 11. Obviously, the safety of the fighters and public is absolutely paramount, and we’ve employed a health and safety company in that respect to make sure everything is managed properly.

“It’s unbelievably hard for promoters to put shows on in the current climate but we’ve put so much work into this show, as have all the fighters on the card, and it just proves that we’re determined to still make history by putting on the UK’s first-ever drive-in boxing show.

“It’s still going to be a smashing show, with a headliner and chief support that are genuine 50-50 fights, between local rivals, and I’m pleased for the fans and fighters that we’re still able to go ahead.”