Hussein Comeback Cancelled After Ronald Ruled Medically Unfit

By Paul Upham at ringside: Australian veteran Hussein Hussein will have to wait a little longer to return to the ring. The 33 year-old’s match with Dedy Ronald was cancelled late on Friday afternoon after the Boxing Authority of NSW ruled the Indonesian was medically unfit to compete.

At 4:28pm, doctors confirmed that a routine blood test for Ronald had found him to be positive for Hepatitis B.

“I’m shattered,” Hussein told those in attendance. “I was really looking forward to tonight. I haven’t fought in Australia for a couple of years now. Seeing everyone here tonight, I was really excited. I was on a high until I walked into the arena and they told me that he had being ruled out. I can’t explain how disappointed I am. All I can say is that I am sorry and it is out of my hands. Hopefully next time, I can put on a show that you can remember.”

Through his interpreter manager, Ronald apologised to the large crowd at the Orion Function Centre, Campsie, NSW.

“I want to make an apology to all the people here,” said Ronald. “I am so sorry about this.”

33 year-old Hussein 31-5 (24) and Ronald were scheduled to compete for the vacant WBO Oriental super flyweight title over twelve rounds. It has been suggested that Hussein may fight for the vacant belt against a new opponent on March 20.

For promoter Billy Hussein, the good news was that the remaining card contained high quality match-ups. The two contested NSW State title matches are worthy of televised rematches on Fox Sports later in 2009.

The new main event on the night saw Bobby Antonakos win an eight round split points decision over Adrian Campbell for the NSW State welterweight title. It was a see-sawing battle with both boxers claiming victory after the final bell. The turning point came in round 7 when Antonakos was hurt badly early, only to rally and out-punch Campbell to the bell to win the round. Judges scored the fight for Antonakos 77-76, 75-78 and 77-75.

Also on the card, Sedat Tasci won the NSW State lightweight title with an eight round unanimous points win over Jerry Spanidis. There were a number of entertaining toe to toe exchanges and both men landed heavy blows throughout. It was a passionate battle that was closer than the official judge’s scorecards of 79-74, 79-73 and 79-74 suggested.

Date February 27
Location Orion Function Centre, Campsie, NSW, Australia
Bobby Antonakos w.sd.8 Adrian Campbell
NSW State welterweight title
Sedat Tasci w.ud.8 Jerry Spanidis
NSW State lightweight title
Fred Nagi w.tko.3 Steve Murray, super middleweight
George Xerras w.ud.4 Marlon Toby, light heavyweight


Paul Upham
Content Editor