Keane got penciled in to score the WBO welterweight title clash at the MGM Grand. He got booked alongside Glenn Trowbridge and Michael Pernick.
The Briton contacted the NSAC to let them know his situation.
“It is with much regret that I am unable to accept this assignment,” Keane wrote in an e-mail to the NSAC. “I am sorry for any problems this might cause.
“I felt very honored to get considered for such an important match, and I am very disappointed that I am unable to officiate.”
Canadian Craig Metcalfe was quickly drafted in by the NSAC as a replacement for the ill Keane and will now take his place ringside for what is set to be the Fight of the Year so far.
CONTROVERSY
There was a massive controversy in the first Pacquiao v Bradley contest. The American was handed a split decision victory despite seemingly being dominated by the Filipino for most of the fight.
Judges Duane Ford and CJ Ross, the latter of which has since retired for her role in another scoring fiasco involving Floyd Mayweather and Saul Alvarez, both inexplicably scored the fight for Bradley.
All in the sport are hoping to avoid a similar embarrassment this time around.
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