SCOTT QUIGG apologised to WBO champion Oscar Valdez for missing weight after coming in 2.8lbs over the featherweight limit at Friday’s weigh-in.
Quigg was hoping to upset the 23-0 rising star and clinch the title at the StubHub Center in Carson, California.
But he is now unable to win the belt after weighing in at 128.8lbs after failing to strip off the last few pounds overnight Thursday.
The Bury man, 34-1-2 (25), insists he was well on course to tip the scales at 126lbs but says his usual weight-making procedure simply did not work.
He said: “I’ve still got to try and figure out how this has happened. Yesterday I was only three pounds over but it just wouldn’t budge.
“I’ve tried everything and I apologise to Oscar and his team.
“I’m so diligent and precise and everything was on track, but my body has frozen and won’t let go of any more weight.
“I’m at a loss to explain why this has happened.”
Quigg, a big underdog with the bookmakers, had suggested this week that beating Valdez to claim the title would make him the new No.1 in the division, which is one of the hottest in the sport at the moment.
But, although there is not belt on the line for Quigg, his promoter Eddie Hearn believes victory beneath the forecast rain at the Stubhub will still be a statement.
He said: “Obviously it’s disappointing that the title is not on the line for Scott but victory still puts him in the driving seat in the featherweight division.
“Anyone in boxing knows that Scott Quigg is the most disciplined and dedicated fighter out there.
“The guy has a diary of everything he’s ever eaten and every workout he’s had in his entire career.
“The ultimate responsibility lies with the fighter but when the process becomes dangerous enough is enough.
“We made the decision not to continue so Scott can be fit and healthy for a war against Valdez.”
