IBF world bantamweight champion Jamie McDonnell has been stripped of his title by the governing body, subject to appeal.
McDonnell was obligated to face South African Vusi Maligna in the first defence of his title, which was captured with a points victory over Julio Ceja in May.
The IBF have decided to take action after McDonnell failed to agree terms for his mandatory defence, which had a November deadline to be completed.
An IBF spokesman confirmed the news to Boxing Scene in a short statement, which read: "Jamie McDonnell did not supply signed signed contracts for his mandatory defence scheduled for November 9 within the prescribed time according to IBF rule.
"By not doing so his title was declared vacant. The IBF has been notified that Eddie Hearn plans to appeal the ruling."
The 27-year-old now faces a fight to keep his belt and secure his promotional future, with the Yorkshireman still under contract to Dennis Hobson Promotions despite stating his desire to explore new opportunities last week.
