STRIPPED OF TITLE
By Per-Ake Persson
EBU lightheavy champion Igor Michalkin (18-1) have tested positive for the forbidden substance meldonium and have been stripped of the title. The test was done after Michalkin defended the title March 12 and beat Patrick Bois. He was already booked for a defence May 27 against Medhi Amar but that fight is now off.
Michalkin makes no excuses and states in a press release from his promoter EC Boxing that he indeed had taken meldonium and was simply unaware that it is on the list of forbidden substances since the beginning of this year.
Meldonium is the same stuff that tennis star Maria Sharapova and runner Abeba Aregawi tested positive for. It helps – or so it is claimed – with blood circulation but if it really makes a difference appears to be a matter of discussion.
Mandatory challenger Enzo Maccarinelli will now face the highest ranked available boxer for the vacant title.
Michalkin also face a suspension but for how long isn't clear yet.
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