World super-middleweight champion Andre Ward has been forced out of a January title defence against Kelly Pavlik with a shoulder injury.
BoxingScene.com confirmed that Ward suffered a shoulder problem in training and will not be fit to face former undisputed champion Pavlik in Los Angeles next month.
Pavlik will reportedly still get a title shot with the fight rescheduled for late February or early March.
The 'Ghost' has won three fights this year after battling back from persistent alcohol issues to make a successful return to the ring.
Ward has been rumoured as a potential summer opponent for Carl Froch, who is desperate for a rematch after being outpointed by the American in the Super Six final last year.
