Janibek Alimkhanuly tested positive for a banned substance ahead of his scheduled fight with Erislandy Lara.
The middleweight champion aimed to unify WBO, IBF, and WBA titles in Saturday’s bout.
The positive test followed a VADA screening, putting the fight and Alimkhanuly’s championship status in jeopardy.
Fighter Requests Retest
Alimkhanuly claims his first drug test returned negative and has requested a retest for the second sample.
He insists he supports clean sport and made no changes to his vitamins or supplements.
“I was surprised when I read the news,” he said, explaining the retest request.
Fans React with Disappointment
Fans expressed frustration at the potential cancellation of the unification bout.
Many said the middleweight division already faces chaos, and this news worsens the situation.
Supporters lamented missing the live fight and voiced hope that the allegations prove false.
