Tyson Fury v Wladimir Klitschko to go ahead following canvas controversy
Tyson Fury's world heavyweight title fight against Wladimir Klitschko will go ahead despite a row over the thickness of the ring's canvas.
The British contender had threatened to pull out of the event at the 55,000 capacity Espirit Arena in Dusseldorf, expected to be watched by millions around the world when it starts at 10pm tonight, after his camp complained the ring canvas was "too soft".
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Fury's agent Asif Vali told BBC Sport earlier: "If it's not resolved, the fight is in jeopardy of being off. The foam underlay is too soft. It's five inches thing, which doesn't help a big lad going into a ring.
"We've never seen canvas like this before. It's too much from a health and safety point of view, because he can easily do his ankle."
Fury's trainer Peter Fury wrote on Twitter: "Head of British boxing board saying ring canvas is totally unacceptable. Boxing, more like moon walking JOKE!!!"
Following the complaints, made to the British Boxing Board of Control and the commissioner of the fight the "soft" canvas was replaced and Fury's team gave the bout the green light.
Cancelling the fight would have cost Fury the biggest payday of his career. He is set to earn up to £5m from the world title clash while reigning champ Klitschko is in line for around £15m.
The 39-year-old Ukrainian has not lost in over a decade.