by Edward Chaykovsky
Both Golden Boy Promotions and Eddie Hearn have confirmed that a deal has been reached for Lee Purdy (20-3-1, 13KOs), the IBF's number four ranked contender, to challenge IBF welterweight champion Devon Alexander (24-1, 13KOs) on May 18th at the Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. Alexander was scheduled to face mandatory challenger Kell Brook, also promoted by Hearn, but the boxer withdrew with a foot injury earlier this week. It was the third postponement for Alexander-Brook due to injuries.
"It's a funny old game how things play out. Lee Purdy will challenge Devon Alexander for the IBF World title on May 18th in Atlantic City. And Kell Brook will remain number one mandatory challenger with the IBF. Who fancies Purdy vs. Brook in September for the IBF strap," Hearn wrote.
Showtime will televise Alexander-Purdy, with a junior welterweight main event between champions Lamont Peterson and Lucas Matthysse.
