Marlon Tapales withdraws from Ballarat bout after sister’s death

Two-division world champion Marlon Tapales has withdrawn from his scheduled bout in Ballarat, Australia, after the death of his 30-year-old sister. The appearance was due to take place on Saturday, August 29.

The Filipino boxer made the decision to step away from the event following the bereavement. His withdrawal was confirmed by Troy Kovacs, a close friend and confidant.

Tapales is a former WBO bantamweight world champion and former IBF super bantamweight world champion. He also challenged Naoya Inoue in a super bantamweight world title unification bout.

The event promoter, Peter Maniatis, said the circumstances had placed Tapales’ family and wellbeing ahead of the planned contest. He expressed support for the boxer as he spends time with his loved ones during the difficult period.

Maniatis also said efforts would be made to rearrange Tapales’ appearance in Australia. That would give his supporters there another opportunity to watch him compete in the country.

Tapales’ withdrawal means he will not take part in the Ballarat event on August 29. No replacement opponent or rescheduled date was provided in the available details.