Billy Joe Saunders being stripped of WBO middleweight title will still mean Demetrius Andrade fights for it, reveals Eddie Hearn
Matchroom Boxing promoter Hearn will ensure Andrade fights for the title even after Saunders failed a drug test
BILLY JOE SAUNDERS being stripped of the WBO middleweight title will still mean Demetrius Andrade fights for it, Eddie Hearn has revealed.
The Matchroom Boxing promoter has said he will ensure Andrade fights for the title even after Saunders failed a drug test.
Saunders is due to fight Andrade on October 20, but that could be in jeopardy after the Brit's positive test for oxilofrine.
Hearn told : "Billy Joe will apply for a license in Massachusetts and they will make the decision if he is allowed to box.
"The most important thing is that Demetrius Andrade fights for the world title on October 20.
"If Billy Joe Saunders is ruled out and stripped of the title, we will be looking to make a fight for the vacant world title."
What is 'oxilofrine'?
Oxilofrine is a stimulant which is used in some supplements claiming to increase performance because of it is believed to help burn fat.
The compound has also been suggested to increase adrenaline production, endurance, and focus as well as improving oxygenation of the blood.
Sprinters Tyson Gay and Asafa Powell both tested positive for the substance in 2013.
American Gay landed a 12-month ban while Jamaica's Powell was handed an 18-month suspension.
Saunders, 29, claimed in statement his positive test result came out due to "a common decongestant nasal spray".
In an ironic twist, Saunders branded Canelo Alvarez a "cheat" earlier this year and insisted the Mexican should never box again over a failed drug test.
The blow came just days after he was slapped with a £100,000 fine by the British Boxing Board of Control for his "drugs for sex" scandal.
Meanwhile the unbeaten southpaw - boasting a 26-0 record - was handed a parking ticket yesterday to add to his recent woes.
