Arthur title shot KO'd by Guzman visa problems by Tom Walker Apr 25th 2008

Alex Arthur's scheduled challenge for the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) super-featherweight title on 3 May was postponed last night after champion Joan Guzman was unable to obtain a visa in time to enter the United Kingdom and prepare for the title bout. The 32-year-old champion from the Dominican Republic, who is based in the United States, was scheduled to fly to London this week in advance of his title defence against Arthur at the Meadowbank Sports Arena next week. Frank Warren Sports Network supremo, is quoted as saying: "We are hopeful of announcing a new date for the fight very shortly, as soon as we hear from Guzman's promoters, Sycuan Boxing, that he has received his visa. "It is a big disappointment, but Alex is a thorough professional and will have to take this in his stride." The Edinburgh boxer is showing remarkable pragmatism in the face of this delay and he too is quoted as saying "After all the training I'd put in, including going to America for two weeks, I was initially angry when I was told that he couldn't get here on time. "But once I calmed down and looked at the situation again I realised that I can use this to my advantage because I now have some valuable extra time to prepare. "Guzman is a great fighter and I know I have the beating of him, but if I can be ten per cent faster and stronger because of the delay then it will work in my favour."

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