HOVE'S Paul Halpin will fight for the British featherweight title on February 19.

That was the softening news he received after finding out that his dream appearance of the Mike Tyson bill in Manchester tonight had been scuppered.

The unbeaten 24-year-old was due to figure on the undercard of the Tyson-Julius Francis contest, but had to pull out yesterday with a neck injury.

It was a crushing blow for Halpin, who was desperate to appear at the same show as one of his all-time heroes.

The problem is a muscle spasm in his neck - a legacy of an old injury.

Halpin explained: "I was working out at the gym when I felt it. I was having my final warm-down and I thought, 'I can't believe this'.

"I am absolutely gutted. It is a muscle spasm problem and I am now trying to protect it.

"They must loosen it up over the next four or five days and then hopefully it will be alright."

Halpin knew he was in line for a crack at the British title this year, with an April date having been earmarked, and tonight's fight had been planned as a warm-up.

News that the title fight is now next month is great for Halpin, but it does not wipe away all the disappointment.

He added: "It softens the blow a little, but I was all geared up for this fight.

"To be on the Tyson bill was unbelievable and I have been buzzing for weeks.

"So, you can imagine I am feeling pretty down.

"I just need a couple of days off, try to get this sorted and get back to training."

The venue and opponent for Halpin's title fight is still to be decided. Liverpudlians Alex Moon and Richie Wenton had been due to contest the vacant British featherweight title, with the Hove fighter lined up to meet the winner.

As for tonight's show, Halpin will have to reflect on a missed opportunity and a chance to make some money.

He added: "My last fight was in November and we have had Christmas in between, so we are pretty skint at the moment.

"But I have been up against worse and I can now look forward to a big pay-day in February."

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