Jimenez Suspended, Win Against Crews Overturned
A month after being on top of the world, everything is starting to crash down for Alejandra Jimenez. The 32-year-old tested positive for Stanazol, a banned substance, according to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA). This comes after beating Franchon Crews-Dezurn via split decision for the WBC and WBO Super Middleweight Titles back on January 11 inside the Alamodome.
The test took place the evening of the fight, and VADA reported the findings to the WBC and the WBO. After Jimenez’s “A” sample from January 10 tested positive. Crews’ results came back negative. Jimenez was meant to share her “B” sample to VADA testing, but she has elected to do so at a later date, February 19.
As a result of the delay, Jimenez’s (12-0-1, 1NC) win against Crews and recognition as a champion has been negated, according to BoxingScene. At this moment in time, her record displays the win as a no-contest. Until the investigation is complete and she is (potentially) cleared, Jimenez will not be a champion at this time.
“In light of the adverse finding, the WBC is provisionally suspending the WBC’s recognition of Alejandra Jimenez as WBC Female Super Middleweight Champion until the WBC’s investigation and adjudicatory process are finalized,” the WBC stated, via World Boxing News.
Golden Boy Promotions CEO Oscar De La Hoya is in full support of Crew-Dezurn, who wants a rematch against Jimenez. He did say, however, that he is willing to comply to any demands VADA has, even if it means delaying results.
“As Franchon’s promoter, we are incredibly disappointed for her as she worked incredibly hard to defend her titles,” De La Hoya stated, via ESPN. “However, our job is to ensure the safety of our fighters both inside and outside of the ring. Thus, we have always insisted and supported testing through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association for all of our world championship fights. Jimenez’s fight against Franchon Crews-Dezurn is no exception.
While she isn’t “suspended” in the traditional sense, Jimenez will not be able to compete in boxing activity until the investigation is complete. If the sample comes back and she tests in a negative light, the suspension will be carried out further as well as a fine. A false positive result will allow her title reign to be reinstated.