Unfortunately for the talented Japanese fighter, he suffered an orbital floor fracture in training, nixing the fight on 10 days' notice.

"This was going to be my first world title fight, so I was extremely motivated and prepared," Tsutsumi (8-0, 5 KOs) told The Ring through a translator. "That's why it was very frustrating and disappointing.

"For a few days, my mind went completely blank, and I felt very sorry for my trainer, family, my promoter and all the fans who support me."

The 26-year-old says his recovery is going well and he envisages his return to be in the coming months.

"I've already restarted training, and I expect to resume sparring this month," he said.

"I'd like to come back around May. Ideally, I would like to fight a champion, but if it's a comeback fight, I'm honestly fine with facing anyone."

In the meantime, Tsutsumi will have one eye on this weekend's WBA junior lightweight title fight when Dickens (36-5, 15 KOs) makes his first title defense against former IBF ruler Anthony Cacace (24-1, 9 KOs) in Dublin.

"Cacace is a former world champion and a very well-balanced fighter with few weaknesses," he said. "I think it will be a great fight, Dickens' experience and power clashing with Cacace's technique and ring IQ."

Tsutsumi can see a path to victory for both men to win, though is favoring one.

"I imagine Dickens will come forward while Cacace boxes on the outside," he reasoned. "If Dickens wins, it will probably be by knockout, but personally I predict Cacace will win by decision."

The plan then is to call out the victor.

"I'm confident that I can beat either fighter," he said. "I definitely want to challenge the winner of this fight."