The WBO has come under heavy criticism after a recent decision regarding one of their reigning world champions.
Zhanibek Alimkhanuly tested positive for a performance-enhancing substance in November 2025, meaning his planned fight with Erislandy Lara – originally scheduled for December 6, 2025 – was cancelled.
Meldonium, a banned substance, was found in his system, but since then, there has been no comment from the Texas Combative Sports Program – the relevant commission in this case – as to whether he will receive a ban.
Instead, the WBO released its ‘championship committee resolution’ on the matter, confirming that Alimkhanuly must undergo a year-long suspension while retaining his championship status.
Upon his return, the Kazakh will be ordered to face the winner Denzel Bentley vs Endry Saavedra, which takes place for the WBO ‘interim’ title on April 4.
Alimkhanuly, meanwhile, also holds the IBF title at 160lbs, though the sanctioning body is yet to release a statement on whether he will be stripped of the belt.
What is known, however, is that despite his failed drugs test, the unbeaten southpaw has been permitted to keep hold of his WBO strap.
In response to this news, many have expressed their frustration via social media platform X, including Scottish trainer Billy Nelson.
“Totally wrong. Go ahead, take drugs, nothing’s going to get done about it. F***ing joke.”
In response to Nelson, another X user highlighted the WBO’s decision not to strip Alimkhanuly of his title as a particularly bewildering development.
“This has to be a wind up. How can you get banned for [doping] but be allowed to keep the title until the ban is finished, then defend it?”
Another onlooker commented on the social media post with a plea for boxing authorities to impose stricter bans.
“Lifetime bans are the only way to stop this.”
While Alimkhanuly has received a year-long suspension by the WBO, there is still a chance that the Texas Combative Sports Program will dish out a harsher penalty.
