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Subriel Matias Fails VADA Test For Ostarine
Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

WBC Junior Welterweight Champion Subriel Matias has failed a VADA test for Ostarine, putting into doubt his mandatory defense against Dalton Smith.

Matias is scheduled to face Smith on January 10 in Brooklyn in what will be his second defense. The positive result for Ostarine, a banned PED known to promote muscle growth and recovery, has now potentially cost him millions, as the fight may not go ahead. Ryan Garcia experienced this when he failed for Ostarine, as his majority-decision win became a no-contest. Garcia also received a year ban from the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC). The primary concern for Matias now lies with the B-sample testing. If the B-sample is positive, Matias could be banned and stripped of his WBC title.

Next Steps

Matias’ first and most immediate step is to formally request the testing of his B-sample. However, the history of anti-doping suggests that B-samples rarely contradict the A-sample. If the B-sample also returns positive, Matias’ team must then attend a hearing to challenge the findings.

Matias may claim the adverse finding was due to product contamination. This defense requires rigorous effort, including testing all supplements and medications the champion consumed. While Matias is unlikely to be fully exonerated under the strict liability rules (meaning he is responsible for whatever enters his body), successfully proving contamination could demonstrate that his level of fault was minimal. This can significantly reduce the length of any potential suspension.

If the evidence for contamination is weak or the B-sample is confirmed, Matias could accept the finding and cooperate fully with the commission and VADA. By admitting the violation and demonstrating remorse, an athlete may be able to secure a reduced ban. However, this course of action would mean the immediate cancellation of the Dalton Smith fight and the near-certainty of being stripped of his WBC title.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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