Amanda Serrano was set for a homecoming to remember on Saturday, but it turned to disaster when she was forced to pull out of her world title bout at the last minute due to a bizarre injury.
Serrano was scheduled to defend her WBA, WBO and IBF featherweight titles against Nina Meinke in Puerto Rico, in what would have been her first fight in her home country for nearly three years.
It wasn’t to be though, as just minutes before the fight was set to begin, it was cancelled after it was revealed that Serrano had suffered an eye injury that she was unable to recover from, as explained by Ariel Helwani.
“According to Nakisa Bidarian, Serrano had her hair done Thursday night. She went for a run on Friday, a chemical from the hair went into her eye.
“It starting bothering her Friday and that’s why she wore glasses at the ceremonials. Bothered her all day today and when they examined her tonight at the arena the commission doctor wouldn’t clear her.
“She tried to convince them otherwise but alas no luck. Jake Paul adds that the chemical burnt her cornea and hand.
“Gate was 1.5 million, and Bidarian says they will refund it all back 100%.”
Serrano also shared on social media how distraught she was with the news.
“This to all my beautiful fans, my island, my fellow fighters who have been sending me well wishes.
“With a torn btoken geart I want to say I’m so sorry. Everyone who knows me knows I’m a warrior & I would never agree to cancel a fight.
“I would have fought without an eye or arm. To my opponent @ninathebrave you’re an amazing respectful fighter.
“I thank you and promise you we will fight & you will get your title opportunity. You deserve it all.
“To my managers @jakepaul I love you with all my heart Nakisa you too. You’re my life line and savior you guys gave me meaning.”
News on a rescheduled date is expected in the coming days.