Jaime Munguía to pursue testing of B-sample after failed drugs test

Former WBO 154lb Jaime Munguía has said that he will move forwards with having his second sample tested after failing a test for elevated testosterone.

In a statement, Munguía said that the initial results had been ‘a complete surprise’ to him, stating that he had passed numerous tests throughout his career. This recent failed test follows his rematch over Bruno Surace in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The pair had fought on the undercard of Canelo-Scull a few weeks ago.

Munguía said on Instagram: “Throughout my boxing career, I have undergone numerous anti-doping tests and have never tested positive. I was tested twice during this training camp, and both results came back negative, which is why receiving this notification of an adverse finding has been a complete surprise to me.”

He added: “Several experts have explained that there are multiple ways contamination can occur, and I am fully willing to undergo any retroactive, current, or future testing to demonstrate that I have always been a clean athlete.”

Munguía concluded by saying that he would say nothing further until further testing.

He said: “I will not make any further comments on this matter until the process is concluded with the results of the B-sample.”

It was reported widely yesterday that Munguía’s A-sample had returned an adverse analytical sample, with the fighter then given ten days to request an analysis of the B-sample. According to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA), which administered the testing for the Riyadh card, Munguía’s A-sample showed an adverse analytical finding for testosterone metabolites.

Contacted by The Independent, Dr Margaret Goodman of VADA said that the organisation could make no further comment due to confidentiality.

Despite an immediate call for the result to be overturned, opponent Surace has softened his position in recent hours.

He wrote in an email to The Independent: "At this stage, it’s important to let the proper process take place and wait for the results of the B sample. Everyone deserves due process, even in a situation as serious as this one. That said, if the positive result is confirmed, it would be deeply disappointing coming from a fighter of Jaime Munguía’s stature. Champions are meant to set the standard, not compromise the integrity of the sport.”

He added: “Our fight was meant to be a great moment for boxing: two top athletes giving everything in the ring. If he knowingly used a banned substance, it taints not only the result, but also the meaning of our rivalry. We’re monitoring the situation closely and will act accordingly depending on how things develop."