It was revealed earlier today that IBF/WBA junior welterweight champion, Lamont Peterson, has tested positive for an unspecified banned substance in advance of his scheduled May 19 rematch with Amir Khan in Las Vegas.
Representatives from Team Peterson release this statement to the media shortly after the story broke:
“We have tremendous respect for VADA and its mission. Lamont, Barry and the entire team emphatically support random drug testing in the most comprehensive manner possible. We are working expeditiously with a team of pathologists and other medical specialists to confirm the origin of the test result and in full compliance with the rules of the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
“Lamont has never had a positive test either before or after this isolated occurrence, and we plan to submit medical findings by close of business Tuesday reflecting the actual facts in support of Lamont’s good faith intentions and the requirements of the commission.”
This will be the first real legitimacy test for the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA), which will undoubtedly feel pressure from both camps to somehow salvage this fight.
With less than two weeks to go before the date of the fight, a suitable replacement for Peterson is not likely to be found for the lucrative HBO date. A cancellation would also leave an estimated 4,000 British fans, who have already booked flights and tickets, scrambling to cancel their plans.
Once the name of the banned substance is revealed, it will be easier to make a call as to the final status of the Peterson-Khan rematch. Stay Tuned.
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