Romanian boxing champion Lucian Bute fails drug test

Romania's former IBF super-middleweight champion Lucian Bute tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine after the fight against Swedish professional boxer Badou Jack on April 30 in Washington, D.C., which ended in a draw. The World Boxing Council announced that it “had been notified by the D. C. Boxing and Wrestling Commission about an adverse finding for the banned substance Ostarine in the post fight anti-doping test from Lucian Bute.” Ostarine is a drug that can be used by athletes to assist in training and increase physical stamina and fitness, potentially producing effects similar to anabolic steroids. The World Anti-Doping Agency banned Ostarine and other similar drugs in 2008. “I don’t understand what happened and what could have led to a positive test. I’ve always passed the doping tests, ever since I became champion,” Bute said, according to local Mediafax. “I have never used banned substances. I have complete faith in my team. I’ve already asked for a test on the B sample, and I’m sure it will come back negative,” he added Yvon Michel, the president of Groupe Yvon Michel (which represents Lucian Bute), has also expressed his surprise related to the results, and his support for Bute. If found guilty, Bute risks a suspension and fine. The result of the fight could also be changed to a no-decision. “The D. C. Boxing and Wrestling Commission will follow its anti-doping rules and regulations and will be in consultation with the WBC and its Clean Boxing Program. Further news will be known in the coming days,” the World Boxing Council announced. Lucian Bute, 36, turned pro in 2003. He has played a total of 36 fights during his professional career and won 32 of them, 25 of which by K.O. Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-insider.com (Photo source: Lucian Bute on Facebook)