Gavin Rees will sit out the 'Christmas Cracker' bill on December 8 after opponent John Murray failed a medical.

It completes a frustrating year for the Welshman who has not fought since July when he beat Derry Mathews in their rematch.

"Obviously it's disappointing to lose the Rees vs Murray fight but as always, boxers' safety is paramount," said promoter Eddie Hearn. "For Gavin we will now make the WBA title fight with Richard Abril for early 2013."

Hearn also revealed that North London prospect John Ryder will take on fellow unbeaten middleweight Eamonn O'Kane on the London Olympia bill.

"We are delighted to add Ryder vs O'Kane, it's unusual for two unbeaten prospects to put it all on the line and I take my hat off to them," he added. We will also announce one further fight this week for the 11 fight Olympia card.

"Ryder vs O'Kane is a fantastic battle and one that the fans will love. Both men are ready for British title action and I'll expect the winner to fight for the belt early next year so they'll be putting it all on the line."

The headline act sees Lee Purdy defend his IBF international strap against Kell Brook victim Carson Jones, while Darren Barker returns to action against Kerry Hope.