LUKE Watkins has been forced to withdraw from his fight tomorrow night and could be facing up to three months out the ring.

The 25-year-old cruiserweight was set to box for the Irish title at the Lavey Sports Arena, however, his trainer Paddy Fitzpatrick said that not only have they had to pull him from this weekend’s show in Northern Ireland but also cancel their plans to stage a show in Swindon on June 6.

The Duke, who has won all four of his fights to date - three by stoppage - travelled with Fitzpatrick and stable-mates Garvey Kelly and Eamonn O’Kane to Derry but was complaining of stomach pains.

However, after seeking medical advice he was given a different diagnosis.

“When we got over here, Duke had a bit stomach ache, so we left it, but as the time went on, we took him to a doctor on Tuesday evening and it turns out it was not a stomach ache,” Fitzpatrick told the Adver.

“It was an ear infection and he has a perforated ear drum, so he cannot fight on Saturday.

“We have also had to pull the show we were planning in Swindon on June 6.

“The doctor said the best case scenario is that it will take two weeks to clear up, but he also said the worst case is 10-12 weeks.

“Duke is gutted - he was looking forward to fighting for his first title.”