BRADLEY SAUNDERS has had his big night of North-East boxing ruined by injury.

The Sedgefield fighter has had his Commonwealth light welterweight title contest with Dave Ryan on April 4 cancelled because of a hand injury.

South Shields’ Anthony Nelson will now take centre stage at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle after being handed a dream shot at the super flyweight strap against Jamie Wilson live on Sky Sports.

Saunders has ruptured tendons and ligaments in his right hand during training so is unable to meet Derby man Ryan.

The 29-year-old is receiving treatment on the injury in order to get back in to training as soon as possible.

“It’s a blow for Bradley but a great chance for Anthony Nelson and Jamie Wilson to steal the show,” said promoter Eddie Hearn. “Nelson will have the crowd behind him and it’s going to be a hostile atmosphere for young Scotsman Wilson to contend with, but I’m delighted that they both get this shot at the big time.”

South Shields’ Nelson and Dundee’s Wilson put their unbeaten records on the line to land the super flyweight crown vacated by Kal Yafai, with the Birmingham talent dropping down to flyweight on this Saturday’s bill in Sheffield.

Nelson saw off Terry Broadbent to claim the English title in October while it’s a huge chance for Wilson to fight live on TV in just his sixth pro contest.

Heavyweight sensation Anthony Joshua returns to action in Newcastle, while local favourite Jon-Lewis Dickinson challenges Stephen Simmons for the Scotsman’s WBC International silver cruiserweight title, and there’s a family feel on the bill with Jon-Lewis’ brother Travis in action and

Bradley’s brother Jeff will make his pro debut.

There’s a host of unbeaten local talent on the bill with unbeaten cruiserweight Simon Vallily, light heavyweight Jordan King, plus a debut for Lewis Ritson and a second pro outing for Scotland’s Commonwealth gold medallist Charlie Flynn.

As yet there is no news on a rescheduled date for the Saunders-Ryan contest. Fans wishing to get a refund should contact their point of sale.

Tickets are on sale priced £40, £60 and £100 from the Metro Radio Arena at www.metroradioarena.co.uk and on 0844 493 6666.