Nikolay Valuev`s defence of his WBA title has dramatically been called of after Ruslan Chagaev failed a medical last night. The bout was due to happen tonight in Helsinki Finland. Details of the medical have failed to emerge so far, but a statement read that Chagaev was unable to "fulfil the federations requirements". The WBA are said to make a decision about the cancelled fight in seven days. They may order an immediate rematch. Chagaev said "I am healthy and ready to fight ... I don`t understand the desision". This is not the first time Chagaev has pulled out of a contest. In 2007, he was widely reported to have tested positive for hepatitis B before a unification contest with Sultan Ibragimov. Valuev`s promoters have said, "our top priority is Nikolai`s health and it could not be guaranteed".

Valuev`s only professional defeat in 51 contests came at the hands of Chagaev in April 2007. He is said to be terribly disappointed at not been given the chance of revenge tonight. Valuev said, "I would have loved to make this fight but given the circumstances it is not possible." He had also stated before the fight that the "loss still haunts me, now is the time to finally set the record straight". Last time out Valuev made an unimpressive defence against four-time former world champion Evander Holyfield. He does however boast victories against fighters such as John Ruiz, Sergey Lyakhovich, Jameel McCline and Monte Barrett.