First boxer resigns from WBC’s drug testing programme

FOR the first time a boxer has resigned from the WBC’s Clean Boxing Program, the drug testing regime that the WBC have put in place. Cuban boxer Erislandy Lara notified the WBC that he should be removed from the program.

Lara is a former super-welterweight world champion who boxed Canelo Alvarez 2014. In his last fight he lost a unification for the IBF and WBA titles to Jarrett Hurd. He had been ranked at number two in the division by the WBC but after withdrawing from the Clean Boxing Program he will be removed from their ratings.

The WBC said in a statement: “The Clean Boxing Program was established in 2016, after many years of preparation and planning. It stands out for specifically pursuing, as absolute paramount, the protection, safety and well-being of all boxers.

“The WBC has an agreement with VADA, which is the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association in charge of administering the Clean Boxing Program. VADA coordinates the collection of samples, the chain of custody and the analysis in laboratories. The WBC is in charge of the results.

“The WBC regrets the decision of Erislandy Lara and wishes him success in his future plans.”