Lawrence Okolie has returned an adverse finding following a pre-fight drugs test, putting his heavyweight clash with Tony Yoka in jeopardy.
The pair were scheduled to collide this Saturday, headlining a Queensberry Promotions card at the Adidas Arena, Paris, where Okolie was expected to defend his No.1 position with the WBC.
Having previously become a world champion at 200lbs, the 33-year-old was edging closer to earning a major title shot at heavyweight, only for his campaign to be thrown into uncertainty following today’s news.
The promoter for the event, Frank Warren’s Queensberry, released a statement regarding the matter.
“Last night, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) informed Queensberry that Lawrence Okolie returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted ahead of the show in Paris this Saturday.
“A further update regarding the event will be made in due course.”
Boxing News understands that, while working with head coach Joe Gallagher, Okolie typically splits his training camps between Dubai and Manchester. It is highly likely, then, that he was based in either of these places when VADA conducted their pre-fight testing.
Shortly after the news broke, Okolie released a statement on Instagram telling fans that the adverse finding is linked to a treatment on a previous injury.
“Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp. I had a treatment on it and now we are here. I truly hope sense prevails.
“I will of course be fully cooperating with all relevant authorities and I’m confident any investigation will clear my name.
“I won’t be making any further comment at this time. Thank you for all your support and see you soon.”
At this stage, there is no information regarding the substance for which he tested positive.
Whether Queensberry can find a replacement opponent for the Olympic gold medallist, it remains to be seen, but Yoka would certainly be eager to keep his place on the card.
Several other French operators, including highly-ranked super-welterweight contender Bakary Samake, are also expecting to progress in their respective careers this Saturday.
Should the event take place, then Samake will face unbeaten American Ermal Hadribeaj, while Yoka may still be given the opportunity to headline in his home city.
