British cruiserweight champion and former WBO ruler Enzo
Maccarinelli has been handed a six month ban by UK Anti-Doping
after he tested positive for a stimulant.
The Welsh boxer tested positive for methyhexaneamine, a
substance found in many perfectly legal dietary supplements, after
defeating Shane McPhilbin on points in March.
UK Anti-Doping has revealed that his ban began on April 19 and
will run up to Oct 18.
"I wish to state that this substance was in no way used to gain
any advantage in the ring or enhance my performance," Maccarinelli
said in a statement.
"And whilst I appreciate that it may look that way, I would
certainly never cheat or cut corners in my preparation.
"I have been tested over 20 times in my career and have never
failed any random or post- fight doping test, but on this occasion,
due to my naivety, I have tested positive for a banned
substance.
"I have volunteered to assist UK Anti-Doping in any way I can to
prevent other boxers or sportsmen from being put in the same
situation as I currently find myself in due to the availability of
what appear to be perfectly legitimate supplements and
manufacturers not making it clear on their products that they
contain banned substances.
"UKAD have accepted my offer and I am determined to ensure,
along with the British Boxing Board of Control that the awareness
of such supplements is enhanced and others do not have to face the
humiliation that I now have to."
18/07/2012 23:38:21