Boxing fans have been reacting following yet another high-profile doping case surrounding a world champion and a failed test.
Back in July, news broke of an adverse analytical finding in Alycia Baumgardner’s test sample. Six months on, the WBC have declared the American as ‘not guilty’ and allowed ‘The Bomb’ to continue as its super-featherweight champion.
The test came following on from Baumgardner’s second successful defence of the 130lb titles, where she outpointed Greece’s Christina Linardatou in a rematch to avenge the lone defeat of her career.
However in the aftermath, it was discovered that Baumgardner tested positive for Mesterolone, an anabolic steroid used to increase testosterone levels, and build muscle mass and strength.
Despite confirming the accuracy of the test result, the WBC have decided to clear Baumgardner of any wrongdoing, with little evidence to support claims of intentional ingestion.
“Based on the Adverse Finding in Ms. Baumgardner’ A Sample, and considering all factors both sides presented, the WBC arrived at the conclusion that there was no conclusive justification to reject the accuracy of the Adverse Finding based on the evidence and arguments the Response and supplemental information presented.
“However, that same evidence and arguments do not conclusively support Ms. Baumgardner’s intentional ingestion of Mesterolone for performance enhancement purposes.
“Accordingly, the WBC found Ms. Baumgardner not guilty of intentional ingestion or consumption of a banned substance for performance enhancement purposes, and confirmed her as reigning WBC Super Featherweight World Champion.”
The sanctioning body states that Baumgardner will be on probation for a year and must agree to random testing.
Fans were quick to respond to the WBC’s post, with many of them unhappy with the decision that has been made by the governing body. One said ‘complete corruption’ whilst others questions why the testing programme was used in the first place.
The controversial Victor Conte said: “It seems obvious that the WBC did NOT follow the “strict liability rule” per the WADA code in this case.”
Baumgardner may still face punishment from governing bodies, potentially halting her hopes for a rematch with Mikaela Mayer down the line.