Former two-time IBF super-featherweight world champion Joe Cordina has denied assaulting a man outside a petrol station in Cardiff, appearing at Cardiff Magistrates' Court alongside co-accused Jamie O'Brien. The case is notable given Cordina's profile in British boxing, though the court heard the charges relate to an incident allegedly involving the two defendants against each other rather than a third party.

Cordina, 34, pleaded not guilty to two charges of assault by beating over the February incident in the Pentwyn area. His lawyer said the second charge "emanates from one continued incident." He was granted unconditional bail, with a trial set for 13 October, while O'Brien's case was adjourned to 26 August without a plea being entered. Cordina had been due to fight for the WBO lightweight title in the US on 4 July but said his visa application was refused.