Dillian Whyte has protested his innocence following confirmation by promoter Matchroom Boxing that the former world title has tested positive for a substance which has yet to be disclosed.
Matchroom confirmed that Whyte had failed a VADA-administered anti-doping test, which had found “adverse analytical findings” for a substance which has yet to be disclosed.
It is reported that Matchroom and Eddie Hearn are seeking to secure Joshua an opponent so the event scheduled for August 12th at the O2 Arena, London, can still proceed as scheduled.
Matchroom has already confirmed that Whyte has been removed as the opponent to face Joshua and will be subject to an investigation conducted by the relevant authority figures alongside the BBBofC.
Heavyweights Filip Hrgovic, Demsey McKean, Derek Chisora and Gerald Washington are already slated to appear on the card (Hrgovic-McKean & Chisora-Washington) and could quickly fill in for Whyte if Matchroom and the named fighters can agree to fresh term on late notice and headline against the former two-time unified world heavyweight champion.
Whyte posted a statement on Instagram claiming that he is innocent and has not taken a substance, which he says he has been accused of taking, whilst feeling frustrated that he has been unable to demonstrate his innocence.
“I am shocked and devastated to learn of a report by VADA of adverse findings relating to me. I only learned of it this morning and am still reacting to it. I have also just seen that the fight is being cancelled without having any chance to demonstrate my innocence before the decision was taken.
I can confirm without a shadow of doubt that I have not taken the reported substance, in this camp or at any point in my life. I am completely innocent and ask to be given the time to go through the process of proving this without anybody jumping to conclusions or a trial by media.”
Whyte continues to add that it was at his request to be subjected to VADA testing and that he is no stranger to being reported for taking a substance in which he categorically denies taking.
“I insisted on 24/7 VADA testing for this fight, as I have done voluntarily and at my own expense for all of my fights for many, many years.
This is not the first time that I have been reported as having an adverse finding for a substance which I have not taken, and as I did last time, I will again prove that I am completely innocent.
In the meantime, all I can do is express my extreme disappointment to boxing fans, who will miss out on what was sure to be a great event.”
