THE highly anticipated heavyweight clash between David Tua and Alexander Ustinov has not yet been postponed, promoter David Higgins said today.
Tua, who is slated to fight the giant Russian in their Hyrd8ZERO David vs Goliath blockbuster at Claudelands’ Arena on August 31, suffered a minor calf strain while training.
The initial professional advice from Team Tua’s doctor is that it is a Grade One tear – the least serious of muscle strains.
Mr Higgins – whose company Duco Events is promoting the Hyrd8ZERO David vs Goliath show – said Tua will continue to be accessed over the next few days.
“At this stage though, it is business as usual,” Mr Higgins said.
“David Tua has undergone an ultrasound and we will know the results of that soon. At that stage we will seek professional advice about the next step forward.
“But regardless of all of that, the Hyrd8ZERO David vs Goliath clash will go ahead. Of that there is no doubt.
“At this stage we are still aiming for August 31. But if David Tua needs time to heal, then we will postpone the fight for, at the most, four weeks from the original fight date.
“But, again, I can guarantee you, ticketholders and our suppliers that the fight between David Tua and Alexander Ustinov will go ahead.”
Tua is taking the injury in his stride.
“It is what it is,” he said. “From this point on it is about being smart.
“In the past I have gone into fights carrying injuries but the stakes are too high at the moment.
“I have to do everything I can to make sure I heal as quickly as possible and get back to full strength as quickly as possible.
“I have had the chance to meet Alexander Ustinov in the last few days and seen the challenge that awaits me in the ring.
“That challenge excites me. It’s going to be a great fight. But right now, I have to be smart and make sure I’m healthy going into the bout.”
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