Shannon Courtenay to face Ebanie Bridges for WBA bantamweight world title

Australian steps in as a late replacement after Rachel Ball pulled out due to the effects of Covid-19

Shannon Courtenay celebrates victory over Buchra El Quaissi (Getty Images)

Shannon Courtenay will face Ebanie Bridges for the vacant WBA bantamweight title on Saturday.

Courtenay had initially been hoping to avenge her only professional defeat against Rachel Ball, however, with the Midlands boxer still recovering from coronavirus, Bridges has stepped in as a late replacement.

Bridges, who is undefeated in five professional bouts, fought only last week in a unanimous decision victory over Carol Earl in Sydney.

“I was gutted to hear Rachel had pulled out but safety comes first so I wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to when we do have that rematch down the line,” said Courtenay.

“All that’s changed is the opponent, the outcome is still the same and on 10 April I will be crowned world champion.

Rachel Ball celebrates defeating Shannon Courtenay (Mark Robinson)

“We’ll put on a great, non-stop action fight for the fans but I’m more determined and focused than ever and that world title is staying in the UK.”

Bridges added: “I’m very excited to be the first female from Australia fighting on a Matchroom card. When Eddie contacted me, it was really unexpected but I’m not going to say no to this chance.

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“I was gutted for Rachel as she’s a friend and I wish her well in recovery but opportunity knocks. This is a fight that fans have spoke about for a while now since I moved onto the British scene.

“I respect Shannon as a boxer, I think we’ll put on a great show but I’ll be the one leaving with the gold.

“This is a huge platform to showcase my skills and who I am, ‘The Blonde Bomber’, to the world. I’ll bring the fight to Shannon - I’m coming to win that world title, buckle up!”