Would-be heavyweight title challenger Jarrell Miller has reportedly failed a VADA test, throwing his scheduled bout with unified champion Anthony Joshua into turmoil, according to promoter Eddie Hearn.
Miller, who was slated to challenge for Joshua’s WBA/WBO & IBF World heavyweight titles on June 1st at Madison Square Garden, is yet to comment on the news of the adverse finding.
However, both Hearn and Miller’s promoter Dmitry Salita, released a series of tweets in the early hours of Wednesday morning confirming ‘Big Baby’ had been flagged by VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency).
We have been informed by VADA that there has been an adverse finding in Jarrell Miller’s sample collected on March 20th, 2019. We are working with all relevant parties and will update with more details soon. AJ’s preparation continues for June 1st at MSG.
— Eddie Hearn (@EddieHearn) April 17, 2019
We are in the process of obtaining further information about VADA’s finding and will have more to say soon on this developing situation. In the meantime Jarrell continues to train for his June 1 fight against Anthony Joshua.
— Salita Promotions (@SalitaProm) April 17, 2019
It has been reported that the violation was caused by the banned stimulant Endurobol (GW1516), a banned stimulant used to increase stamina and help burn fat.
The news comes as a hammer blow to Joshua and his team ahead of the Finchley-man’s American debut.
It has not been confirmed whether or not Miller will be removed from the bout, with both camps stating that both men continue to prepare for the scheduled June 1st date.
The story continues to develop, with neither Joshua or Miller yet making a statement.