Former WBA interim lightweight, Rolando Romero, has long been one of the strongest contenders in the lightweight division. He was last seen showcasing an impressive performance against Gervonta Davis, albeit unsuccessfully. Moreover, he was scheduled to move up to light welterweight and fight Dominican Southpaw, Alberto Puello, for the WBA junior welterweight title. It has now been reported that Romero will face a new opponent after Puello tested positive for a banned substance.
Puello was recently drug tested by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA). In the said test, it was reported that he had tested positive for the performance-enhancing drug, clomifene. Notably, clomifene was the drug that Conor Benn had tested positive for in 2022.
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In an interview with ESPN, WBA president Gilbert Mendoza said, “We’re going through due process, we’re going to listen to Puello’s arguments. And let him disclose all the information. We’ll send all his information to the medical and legal committee. And then we’ll come back with an answer regarding his status as champion.” Puello was later removed from the Romero fight. Additionally, Romero will now face Ismael Barroso for the vacant WBA Super lightweight title.
Fans react to the cancellation of Rolando Romero vs Alberto Puello
Boxing fans did not hold back as news about Puello testing positive started doing rounds. In fact, a lot of them took to social media to share their thoughts about the same.
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A fan named Nick Martin wasted no time in asking, “Damn is anyone clean anymore?” Similarly, another fan named Dewayne Robinson mentioned, “Everybody on something.” Meanwhile, one user, Knock That Out wanted to know if drug tests have become more efficient. He said, “Is this a new thing or did testing go up in a major way???”
On the other hand, user The Show Stopper was disappointed with Puello. They wrote, “Mannnn cmon brah. You gon get caught.” Additionally, the same user also took a dig at Canelo Alvarez and Tyson Fury, by saying, “And if you ain’t Fury or Canelo, they not lettin’ you get by with it. Be smarter than that.”
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Lastly, a user, Trust the Process felt, “WBA belt needs to go!!! Zero prestige.” It sure looks like fans are fed up with all the failed drug tests in recent years. What are your thoughts on Puello testing positive? Let us know in the comments section below.
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