Queensberry Promotions boss Frank Warren confirms that Dennis McCann has claimed his innocence, despite failing a Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) test.
It was reported last week that ‘The Menace’ had been removed from his clash with domestic rival Peter McGrail after returning an adverse finding in his pre-fight drugs test.
The pair were supposed to lock horns on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury’s rematch this Saturday, with McCann putting his European super bantamweight title on the line.
However, the 23-year-old must now focus on clearing his name, ahead of what could be a lengthy process with the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBC).
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Frank Warren reveals details of Dennis McCann’s failed VADA test
Since the news emerged, there have been no further updates regarding the banned substance that was found within McCann’s system.
But now, the unbeaten contender’s promoter, Frank Warren, has confirmed that he will be expected to appear before the BBBC at a hearing next year.
While McCann’s pre-fight testing was administered by VADA, the UK Anti-Doping Agency (UKAD) must liaise with the BBBC to find a resolution.
This is because VADA, despite being widely regarded as the gold standard when it comes to drug testing, has no authority to issue bans.
McCann, meanwhile, has amassed 16 professional victories thus far, outpointing seasoned operator Ionut Baluta with an impressive performance in his last outing.
And so, with the talented Brit entering a far less desirable battle, his promoter is undoubtedly hoping for an encouraging turn of events.
“Look, it’s very disappointing,” Warren told BoxNation. “He’s getting the B-Samples tested, and then there will be a hearing no doubt.
“The [BBBC] have notified UKAD – they’ll advise the date of the hearing – and then obviously [McCann will] go before them to explain why those particular stimulants were in his urine sample.
“His blood sample [came] back negative. Now he’s got another fight on his hands, and he’s fighting for his career.
“He swore to me that he has not taken any performance-enhancing drugs.”
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Peter McGrail remains on the undercard of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Tyson Fury 2
While McCann’s situation is yet to reach a conclusive ending, McGrail has nonetheless kept his place on the blockbuster card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this weekend.
The Olympian will take on unbeaten featherweight prospect Rhys Edwards, who comes off a wide unanimous decision victory over Thomas Patrick Ward.
More interestingly, though, the pair share a common opponent in Brad Foster, who went the distance with Edwards but was emphatically stopped by McGrail earlier this year.
But of course, the short-notice change of opponent may produce a cagey affair, with neither fighter wishing to take any unnecessary risks.