POSTPONED – ‘Gutted’ Eric Donovan confirms EU title fight withdrawal

Eric Donovan’s EU Champion dream has been put on temporary hold.

The popular Kildare fighter was set to trade leather with Mario Alfano [15(4)-2(0)-1] for the EU super featherweight title in Brescia, Italy this day next week [Saturday May 15].

However, the Continental clash has been postponed and The St Michaels Athy graduate will have to wait to claim profesional European honours.

The Mark Dunlop managed fighter confirmed the news on social media today. A ‘gutted’ Donovan [13(7)-1(1)] confirmed he injured a rib in a sparring session and as a result, had to pull out of the fight.

“I am absolutely gutted to announce that my EU European Title fight on May 15th will have to be postponed,” Donvan said on socail media.

“I picked up a bad injury to my ribs in a recent spar which has put me in an unfit position to fight next week. Thanks to all my team, sponsors and fans. The goal still remains!”

I am absolutely gutted to announce that my EU European Title fight May 15th will have to be postponed. I picked up a bad injury to my ribs in a recent spar which has put me in an unfit position to fight next week. Thanks to all my team, sponsors & fans. The goal still remains! ⚡ pic.twitter.com/sxn4SBgduE

— Eric Lilywhite Lightning Donovan (@ericdonovanbox) May 8, 2021

The fact ‘Lily White Lightning’ is talking about a postponment rather than cancelation is positive news. It’s more than likely the Pascal Collins trained fighter will retain his mandatory status and will challenge for the strap once he recovers.

It’s very unlikely Alfano will still challenge for the title come Saturday but he may get a late replacement for a non title fight and thus get some rounds in.

Thomas Carty is expected to trade leather for the first time as a pro on the card. There has been no news to suggest a change of plan for the heavyweight, so next week should see clashes for Carty and a European title defence in Manchester for Tommy McCarthy.