Henry Akinwande has withdrawn from tonight's heavyweight world title fight against Evander Holyfield after learning he has the hepatitis B virus, prompting cancellation of the entire card.

The New York State Athletic Commission confirmed yesterday that Akinwande tested positive for hepatitis B in his required physical exam. As a result, the entire Madison Square Garden card, which had reportedly sold just 6,000 tickets, was cancelled.

"We're sorry he can't fight," said Akinwande's manager J.C. Courreges at a news conference yesterday at Madison Square Garden. "He is seeking treatment for his condition. We're very disappointed."

Even promoter Don King was at a loss for words in light of the development. "It's just one of those things," said King. "There's nothing else I can say other than being sorry." Doctor David Kaminsky said the British fighter had the exam taken on June 2nd. "It shows that he has been exposed to the hepatitis B virus and it's currently in the infectious stage," he said.