Julio Cesar Martinez Suspended after Positive Drug Test
In a concerning development for boxing fans, Julio Cesar Martinez has been suspended by the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) following a positive drug test surrounding his March 30 victory over Angelino Cordova. The testing, conducted by the NSAC, revealed the presence of banned substances, leading to the commission’s ruling.
As per the report from The Ring, the collected sample “produced findings of S5 Diuretics and other masking agents.” This discovery means that Martinez, the reigning WBC flyweight champion, is now barred from competing in the United States until the NSAC grants him permission to do so. A tentative hearing is scheduled for June 24, as the commission reviews the case.
This is not the first time Martinez has faced drug-related issues. In 2019, the Mexican boxer tested positive for Clenbuterol during random testing as part of the WBC’s Clean Boxing Program. However, the sanctioning body cleared him, citing the possibility of the substance being present due to the consumption of contaminated meat.
Erick Garcia Benitez, another boxer on the same PBC event where Martinez defended his title, also reportedly tested positive for S5 Diuretics, leading to a loss in his four-round decision against Justin Vitoria.
Should Martinez fail to provide a satisfactory explanation for the latest findings, he could face a ban, a fine, and the reversal of his victory over Cordova to a No Contest.
The boxing community will closely follow the developments in this case, as the sport continues to grapple with the challenge of ensuring fair and clean competition.
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