Former light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal has tested positive for COVID-19 and is experiencing mild symptoms connected to the virus. As a result, Pascal will not fight Michael Eifert at Place Bell in Laval, Canada on February 9, 2023. At this time, it is unclear when or if the bout will be rescheduled.
“Late [Thursday] night, we were contacted by Jean Pascal, who got sick over New Year’s weekend,” Yvon Michel of GYN Promotions said, per Boxing Scene.
“His symptoms are too severe for him to continue training for his IBF title elimination fight against the German Michael Eifert, scheduled for Place Bell on February 9.”
The winner of the previously scheduled bout was expected to challenge Artur Beterbiev for his world title. Currently, Beterbiev is preparing to fight Anthony Yarde at the end of January. Afterward, Beterbiev or Yarde is expected to challenge Dmitry Bivol for the undisputed light heavyweight title later this year.
As the light heavyweight division takes shape, Eifert and Pascal will work themselves into position for a title shot. Eifert is currently riding high on a five-fight win streak. Meanwhile, Pascal is currently enjoying a three-fight win streak after losing to Dmitry Bivol in 2018.
