In a shocking turn of events, Dillian Whyte, the heavyweight boxer, has received an “adverse finding” from a doping test, leading to the cancellation of his highly anticipated rematch against Anthony Joshua scheduled for August 12.
The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) informed promoters Matchroom and boxing authorities about the test result, prompting a swift response from the organizers.
Matchroom released a statement confirming the cancellation of the fight and announcing a full investigation into the matter.
A devastated Dillian Whyte, aged 35, vehemently denies any wrongdoing, asserting his complete innocence. In a statement posted on social media, he expressed shock at the report and his disappointment at the cancellation without having the opportunity to prove his innocence.
According to Whyte, he has never taken the reported substance during his current training camp or at any point in his life. He calls for time to undergo due process and requests that judgments not be made prematurely or through media trial.
The rematch between Anthony Joshua, aged 33, and Dillian Whyte was eagerly awaited by fans after their intense British title fight eight years ago. Joshua emerged victorious with a seventh-round knockout, avenging a previous amateur loss to Whyte.
The cancellation leaves the possibility open for Anthony Joshua to fight at London’s O2 Arena if an alternative opponent can be found.
Dillian Whyte’s history includes a previous doping violation charge in 2019, which was eventually dropped by UK Anti-Doping due to very low levels of a banned steroid. He also served a two-year suspension from 2012 to 2014 for taking an illegal supplement.
Despite the setback, both fighters are likely to face heightened scrutiny and speculation as the boxing community awaits the outcome of the investigation into the recent doping test results.