THE CONTROVERSY WHICH surrounds Amir Khan and Lamont Peterson’s light-welterweight rivalry is showing no sign of abating.
Last night, Peterson’s camp confirmed the reigning WBA and IBF champion had failed a drugs test.
A statement by Peterson’s attorney, Jeff Fried, said:
“Lamont has never had a positive test either before or after this isolated occurrence and we plan to submit the medical findings by close of business Tuesday reflecting the actual facts in support of Lamont’s good faith intentions and the requirements of the commission.”
ESPN Boxing report that a source close to the situation has claimed the test in question, undertaken by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA), found a synthetic testosterone.
The news puts a major doubt on the much-anticipated rematch, due to take place in just 11 days time.
Asif Vali, Khan’s business manager this morning told Sky Sports: “The Peterson team seem to think that something’s gone wrong during the very first VADA drug test which Lamont took in March. Their explanation is that it’s something he took earlier on in the year – before the last fight.”
“We don’t want to make any assumptions in any way, shape or form,” Vali added. “The fight is still on at the moment. I know the fans will be disappointed. People waking up will be in shock. People have made plans to go there. We want to do everything possible to ensure the fight’s on.”
With the bout due to take place in the Mandalay Bay venue in Las Vegas, the Nevada Boxing Commission must now act quickly to make a decisive ruling on the findings of VADA.
