Lee Purdy will not be fighting for the world title when he takes on Devon Alexander

Lee Purdy has failed to make the weight for his world title fight against Devon Alexander in Atlantic City on Saturday night.

The Colchester banger, who took the fight at four weeks' notice after Kell Brook pulled out through injury, was still 8oz over the 147lb limit after returning to the scales.

Purdy had originally weighed 10st 8lb but Matchroom Promotions chief Barry Hearn said enough was enough - the fight will still go ahead without the IBF strap on the line for the challenger.

"These things happen. At least there's still a fight," Hearn told ESPN.com. "He took this fight on four weeks' notice. He's a good kid and a consummate pro, but there was nothing left for him to take off."

Purdy will reportedly be docked 10 percent of his $150,000 purse with half going to Alexander.

Both fighters still have to meet the fight-day weight check of 157lb - 10lb above the limit.

Alexander will retain the title even if he loses, while if he wins it will be regarded as his first defence having beaten Randall Bailey last year.

The fight will co-feature on the Atlantic City show that sees Lamont Peterson take on Lucas Matthysse, who both hold portions of the light-welterweight title.