Islington middleweight John ‘Rough’ Ryder’s British title challenge against reigning champion Billy Joe Saunders has been postponed until the end of September.

Ryder’s promoters Matchroom were originally due to host the eagerly-anticipated clash between the two southpaws, but the British Boxing Board of Control identified ‘issues’ with the original purse bid.

The rearranged bid was won by Andy Ayling on behalf of Queensberry Promotions – but Ryder insists the delay will have no bearing on his fight preparations.

“It doesn’t really matter who promotes the fight. Come fight night there is just a ring for me and Billy Joe to share, it’s as simple as that,” Ryder told the Gazette.

“I am always in training and always fit and in good condition. All I need to know is when and where and I will step up my training programme accordingly.

“It is going to be a great fight and I do believe I have the tools to win the fight and take the British middleweight belt to Islington.”

Ryder’s long-term trainer Colin Lake echoed his fighter’s eagerness to focus on the action in the ring.

“Obviously we want to know the date for the fight as soon as possible so that we can plan John’s training programme accordingly, and we hope it will be sooner rather than later on in the year,” said Lake.

“At the moment he is ticking over nicely, but we will step up the action when the fight date is revealed.”

The former Angel ABC star, whose most recent outing was an eight-round points victory over Farai Musiyiwa in March, remains unbeaten in 14 contests as a professional.

Islington super-featherweight prospect Joey Taylor will box on Frank Warren’s rearranged Wembley Arena show on Saturday July 20.

The Warren Promotions bill, which is headlined by former world heavyweight title challenger Dereck Chisora, has been moved from its original date of June 15.

Tickets, starting at £40, can be obtained by calling 0844 249 1000 or 0844 815 0815.

All tickets for the original date will be valid for the July 20 show, but anyone seeking a refund should contact their original point of purchase.