Wellington, New Zealand: The controversy surrounding Mea Motu's canceled world title fight stems from a series of setbacks that have affected her boxing career. summary of the key events

Background on Mea Motu

Recent Success: Mea Motu, a professional boxer from New Zealand, recently secured the IBO World super bantamweight title on April 27, 2023, becoming the third Māori woman to do so.

Planned Fights: Following her victory, Motu was set to defend her title in several bouts, including a notable fight against Indian boxer Chandni Mehra in November 2023.

Cancellation of the Fight

Mea Motu expressed her disappointment after learning that her much-anticipated IBF, WBO, and IBO featherweight world title fight against unified champion Ellie Scotney was canceled due to an injury Scotney sustained. 

"I'm gutted, incredibly disappointed," Motu said. 

"We've been working so hard this camp. I've pushed myself harder than ever before, and now I'm in the best shape I've ever been. I think she's avoiding me, looking for an excuse to back out. This only fuels my determination, and I'm not going to quit.

"I'm still coming for you, Scotney."

The fight was initially set for October 26 at the Co-op Arena in Manchester, headlined by a junior welterweight clash between Jack Catterall and Regis Prograis.