Brian Magee has made six defences of his IBO title

The Moroccan-born Dutchman has an elbow injury and his management was unable to convince Magee's promoters Matchroom that he would be ready in time.

Nigerian-born Dane Jerry Elliott is now emerging as the most likely opponent for Belfast boxer Magee.

Elliott has claimed a draw with WBA number 10-ranked Ben Saleh.

The Danish-based boxer was previously rated in the WBC's top-10 middleweights and is the current IBF international super middleweight champion.

Former WBO middleweight champion Otis Grant has also been mentioned as a possible replacement for Ben Saleh but the Canadian has arranged a bout in Quebec for 10 April.

Grant, who made his comeback to the ring in November after over four years out, is scheduled to face Stephane Ouellet, promoters Interbox announced on Friday.

Magee is hoping that an impressive performance on 17 April could land him a title challenge against Australia's WBA champion Anthony Mundine or IBF kingpin Sven Ottke.

The Belfastman, now ranked eighth by the WBA, has claimed 21 straight wins in his professional career including six successful defences of the lightly-regarded IBO title.

His last fight was an impressive stoppage of former world champion Hassine Cherifi in November.

The bulk of Magee's preparation for the Belfast fight will be spent in the US.