Mexican boxer 'Chihuas' Rodriguez tested positive for doping after winning the WBC interim flyweight championship. The test results came 20 days after Rodriguez defeated Olympic champion Galal Yafai at the bp Pulse LIVE Arena in Birmingham.
This positive test adds to the growing list of doping scandals surrounding the 'Canelo Team', led by trainer Eddy Reynoso. The team, which includes boxing superstar Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez, has now seen six of its boxers linked to the use of banned substances.
Eddie Hearn's promotional company announced that both the World Boxing Council and the British Boxing Board of Control will investigate the matter. Rodriguez will have to attend a hearing and may request analysis of his B sample.
If the positive test is confirmed, Rodriguez could face suspension, lose his newly won WBC title, and the fight result might be declared a 'No Contest'. This outcome would restore Yafai's undefeated record, which stood at 9-0 before the loss to Rodriguez.
Rodriguez responded to the allegations on Instagram, questioning the validity of the test:
"Positive to what? What a way to try to discredit my work. I was tested three times a month and a half before, they went to my house. Why did I never test positive in the previous tests?"
His statement suggests he denies knowingly using banned substances and hints at a possible attempt to discredit him.
This incident further damages the reputation of the 'Canelo Team' and raises continued concerns about doping in boxing. The sport's governing bodies will need to address these issues to maintain the integrity of the sport and ensure fair competition for all athletes.
