Major change confirmed to Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois card after former world champion’s exit causes chaos

The undercard of the domestic dispute between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois has made another major change just days before the fight.

The card, set to head into the Wembley battle in front of 96,000 fans on Saturday night, suffered a major setback last weekend.

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The card was shaken up when Liam Smith withdrew from his highly anticipated fight with Josh Kelly due to the virus.

There were fears that a replacement for the former WBO light-middleweight champion would not be found and that Kelly would not fight the bout.

But a short-notice opponent has been found for the Sunderland man.

Undefeated Ishmael Davis has been called up to take part in the biggest fight of his career on six days’ notice.

However, Davies is not yet off the sofa to trade heavy leather with Kelly on the home ground of English football.

‘The Black Panther’ was already in training camp for his IBF intercontinental super-lightweight bout with Ouaisma Lima, on the undercard of October’s fight between Jack Catterall and Regis Prograis.

Former world champion brutally denied title challenge on Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois card days before Wembley clash

Kelly, 30, recalled how he found out about Smith’s retreat. The Stomping Ground“(I) really found that out through my team.

“Adam (Booth) said, ‘He’s been kicked out.’ And I said, ‘What?’

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Anthony Joshua vs Daniel Dubois: Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the huge world title fight at Wembley

“But sometimes there’s nothing you can do. If he’s really sick, he’s sick. So there’s nothing I can do about it.”

“People have different opinions, but honestly, I maintain my own view on what I am doing.”

Kelly said of Davis: “He’s a strong, determined guy. But he’s not at my level.”

“He’ll come forward and get his hands up and try to work the body.

“But I’m up for it with Liam, so it’s the perfect style.”

An overjoyed Davis wrote on Instagram: “Change of plans, looks like we’re heading to Wembley!

“I’m going to shock the world.

“I want to thank @eddiehearn @franksmith @turkialalshik @matchroomboxing for this huge opportunity!

“Also, I’d like to thank @leeeaton for making this possible.

“Fighting on six days notice at middleweight, but you already know that.”