Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In an unexpected turn of events, Briton Josh Padley has stepped in to face the undefeated WBC lightweight champion Shakur Stevenson this Saturday in Riyadh. The fight comes after Floyd Schofield Jr was forced to withdraw due to health issues.

Stevenson, 27, boasts an impressive record of 22 wins, with 10 of those victories coming by knockout. Padley, hailing from Yorkshire, is also undefeated with 15 wins to his name. This will be Padley's first world championship fight, and he faces the daunting task of taking on one of boxing's most formidable champions.

Stevenson is defending his WBC lightweight title for the second time after winning it in 2023. His last defense was a dominant performance that solidified his status as one of the top fighters in the division. Padley, on the other hand, last fought in September 2023, where he secured a victory over domestic rival Mark Chamberlain.

The fight card also features other high-profile bouts, including Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol for the WBA, WBO, IBF, and WBC light-heavyweight titles, and Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker for the IBF heavyweight title.

Schofield Jr's withdrawal has raised questions, but his father has denied any allegations of avoiding the fight. 'As a parent, I am overwhelmed. People can be cruel and evil. The comeback will be major. No one ducks a fight with Mr. Pillow Hands,' Schofield Jr's father stated on Instagram.

Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying night of boxing in Riyadh, as Josh Padley aims to make a name for himself against the reigning champion Shakur Stevenson.