Paul Hughes forced to withdraw from Cage Warriors title fight

Paul Hughes has been forced to withdraw from Friday's Cage Warriors featherweight title fight with Jordan Vucenic in London due to a neck injury.

The Derry man, who is the Cage Warriors interim 145-pound champion, was hoping to take a title once held by Conor McGregor in what he felt would be his final step before signing with the UFC.

However, holder Vucenic will now meet James Hendin (6-1) at the Indigo at the O2 in London.

"You never like to lose fighters at this late stage before an event – especially one of the calibre of Paul Hughes – but the reshuffle that has matched Jordan Vucenic with James Hendin ensures that this Friday’s show still has a mouthwatering main event," said Cage Warriors president Graham Boylan.