Cuban defector and recent winner of the WBA interim heavyweight title, Luis Ortiz, was officially fined and suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) for testing positive for the anabolic steroid Nandrolone following a Sept. 11 first round knockout of Lateef Kayode.
At Monday’s monthly NSAC meeting, the punishment was unanimously approved after the 6 ft 4 Cuban threw himself on the mercy of the commission, claiming innocence of intent and telling the commission that he has no idea what the substance in question even looks like.
“I came to America five years ago to accomplish my dream of becoming a world champion,” Ortiz told the commission. “I don’t even know what this substance is. I’ve always trained very hard to accomplish my dream. I leave it all in your hands. I have faith and trust in you.”
Ortiz will be fined $8,000 (10% of his $80,000 purse) and suspended eight months from the date of the fight. The result of the contest will also be changed to a “No Contest.” In addition to the commission punishment, the WBA announced that they have stripped Ortiz of his title.
“King Kong” Ortiz will be eligible to return to the ring May 1.
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