Sergey Kovalev Fails Doping Test, Fight With Bektemir Melikuziev Canceled (UPDATE)

UPDATE: Sergey Kovalev vs. Bektemir Melikuziev has been canceled. Golden Boy Promotions made the announcement that the California State Athletic Commission has called off the bout.

Original:

Sergey Kovalev, a former WBA (Super), IBF, and WBO Light-Heavyweight Champion, has found himself in hot water.

Dan Rafael reports that Kovalev has tested positive for synthetic testosterone. The news comes from a VADA letter that Rafael obtained. Here is his tweet.

BREAKING: Sergey Kovalev has tested positive for synthetic testosterone. I have obtained the VADA letter outlining the details of positive test. Means his Jan. 30 DAZN headliner with Bektemir “Bek Bully” Melikuziev likely will be canceled. #boxing

— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) January 14, 2021

“Sergey Kovalev has tested positive for synthetic testosterone. I have obtained the VADA letter outlining the details of the positive test. Means his Jan. 30 DAZN headliner with Bektemir ‘Bek Bully’ Melikuziev likely will be canceled.”

As mentioned in the tweet, Kovalev is scheduled to take on Bektemir Melikuziev on January 30. The bout was initially set to be held in Russia but is being moved to Indio, California. Now, that bout is very much in doubt due to the positive test.

Kovalev hasn’t seen action since November 2, 2019. He lost the WBO Light-Heavyweight Championship to Canelo Alvarez. Kovalev was knocked out in the 11th round.

Despite being at an experience disadvantage when it comes to pro bouts, Melikuziev is a betting favorite according to BetMGM at -334. Kovalev is the +240 underdog. It shouldn’t be long before a decision is made on whether or not Kovalev vs. Melikuziev will be canceled.

Stick with FIGHT SPORTS for the latest updates on Sergey Kovalev vs. Bektemir Melikuziev.