Promoter Frank Warren has insisted that he remains hopeful that Derry Mathews will compete for the WBA lightweight title on April 18, despite the absence of champion Richar Abril.

After withdrawing from their first scheduled bout on March 6, Mathews and Abril were due to meet in Liverpool next weekend, but earlier on Thursday, it was revealed that the Cuban had pulled out of the contest through illness.

However, after entering discussions with the WBA, Warren has revealed that Mathews could still compete in a world title encounter in nine days' time.

A statement on his official website read: "We have been made aware of Abril's withdrawal and are in discussions with the World Boxing Association and representatives of Richar Abril as to the current position of the world title as this is the second time he has withdrawn from this fight with less than two weeks before fight night.

"We expect to hear from the WBA shortly and will make an announcement through this office. However, we fully expect Mathews to contest a version of the WBA World Championship on Saturday, April 18."

Reports have suggested that Abril could be relegated to 'champion in recess', with Mathews potentially fighting for the vacant belt against Colombian knockout specialist Ismael Barroso.