Lawrence Okolie has suggested that his recent failed drug test may be linked to treatment he received for a bicep injury.
The former cruiserweight and bridgerweight champion was set to face Tony Yoka in Paris on Saturday night as part of his transition to the heavyweight division.
A statement from his promoter, Queensberry, revealed that the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) had flagged an adverse finding in Okolie’s anti-doping test. Further updates regarding the situation are expected in the near future.
Okolie took to social media to explain his side of the story, citing an elbow injury on the same arm as the previously injured bicep during his training camp. He expressed confidence in clearing his name and assured full cooperation with the authorities.
Okolie and Yoka both participated in the 2016 Rio Olympics, albeit in different weight categories. While Yoka clinched a gold medal, Okolie returned without a medal. Okolie later became a world champion at cruiserweight before moving up to bridgerweight and eventually to the heavyweight division.
Ahead of his scheduled fight with Yoka, Okolie emphasized feeling at his physical peak and expressed determination to excel in the heavyweight category. He sees the bout as a significant opportunity in his career and believes the momentum is in his favor.
The fight between Okolie and Yoka was highly anticipated, with Okolie looking to continue his winning streak in the new weight class.
