Junior Witter has been spared an Italian job before his summer bid for world glory.

Next week's planned European title defence in Varese has been put on hold, which clears the way for Witter to focus 100 per cent on his WBC fight with destiny against American DeMarcus Corley.

Witter had been due to warm up for that by facing Guiseppe Lauri next Friday. But after the Italian's camp tried to have the date put back to June 1, the European Boxing Union decided that any contest would only take place after Witter's world-title showdown.

The Bradford light-welterweight will find out on Thursday where the Corley clash will be staged when the purse bids are announced in Mexico City. The fight must take place by July 16.

"Junior was happy to take on Lauri first but it's not a problem with him," said manager John Ingle.

"He has been out training in Gran Canaria and will carry on as normal but obviously he has now realised that he is preparing for the big chance he's been waiting for."

With no trip to Italy, it means that Witter faces Corley having not fought since a dour domestic 12-rounder over Colin Lynes in October.

Promoter Mick Hennessy insists that will not be a problem, although Witter likes to keep busy.

Hennessy said: "It's a fine line to draw. When a fighter becomes number one in the rankings and then mandatory and get their shot, it could mean a long period of inactivity.

"You've got to take that decision whether you keep a fighter in that position busy or not.

"Junior admits himself he hasn't been able to get himself up properly in the last couple of fights but he has still got those 12 rounds in the bank and that's important.

"Corley will have seen that and may wonder what the fuss is about. But he will see a very different Junior in the ring and I can see him walking on to some big shots.

"Junior has got that awkward type of style that can upset anyone, which is why he has been avoided. People know he will accept any challenge and that he presents a real risk because he is a big puncher.

"He is genuinely disappointed that he isn't facing Floyd Mayweather because he wanted to beat the best. But I can guarantee that Corley will see the very best of Junior Witter."

l Nadeem Siddique maintained his unbeaten record with his 18th win against Northampton bruiser David Kehoe at Leeds Town Hall.

There was also a second success for Silsden's Paul Newby against Peter Buckley but Donovan Smillie drew with Rob Burton.