Sold-outNews boxing night is abandoned after stab attack

A SOLD-OUT boxing event had to be abandoned after man suffered serious injuries in a stabbing attack outside.

More than 500 fight fans were in the Middleton Arena when a ‘major incident’ was declared by the Rochdale venue.

Police were called to an area outside the arena after reports of a ‘disturbance’ at around 10pm on Friday.

Two men are said to have chased the victim, leading to a fight which left him with a stab wound to his back.

The abandonment of the sold-out event meant the fourth fight – between Lee Clayton and Ricky Leach – was declared ‘no contest’ and the two final bouts of the night, including the headline fight, were called off. Fight promoter Kieran Farrell MBE, from Heywood, said: “The stabbing was outside and it wasn’t connecting to the boxing match.

“The lad was taken to hospital. My first thought was with him and I hope he’s okay.

“I’m gutted that they did this outside the boxing show. I’ve been questioning whether I should carry on.”

Det Sgt Rich Shelton said: “Local residents and businesses will see extra patrols in the area - if you have any questions about what happened, or want to pass on information, you can speak with them directly.”

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward by calling 101.