By Rick Reeno

Lou DiBella, promoter of WBO middleweight champion Andy Lee (34-2-2, 24KOs), has confirmed that his boxer's upcoming mandatory defense against Billy Joe Saunders (22-0, 12KOs) has been postponed to October 10th.

The fight was scheduled to go ahead on September 19th at Thomond Park Stadium, in Limerick.

Lee's trainer, Adam Booth, contacted DiBella earlier today and advised him that Lee has been battling a virus and needs additional time to fully recover and prepare.

"I got a call from Adam Booth who told me Andy has been battling a virus on and off for the last couple of weeks, and they are moving the fight back to October 10th," DiBella told BoxingScene.com.

Lee was last in the ring back in April, when he fought former champion Peter Quillin to a twelve round split draw in a non-title fight due to Quillin's inability to make weight. He capture the world title last December with a stoppage win over previously unbeaten Matt Korobov.

Saunders fought last month at Wembley, when stopped Yoann Bloyer in four rounds. Prior to that victory, he won a twelve round split decision in his domestic grudge match with Chris Eubank Jr. last November.