Trainer Buddy McGirt Says He Wasn’t Aware Of Sergey Kovalev’s Positive Test

Sergey Kovalev’s head trainer, Buddy McGirt, says he was unaware of his fighter’s positive doping test.

Kovalev was set to return to the ring on January 30. He was scheduled to share the ring with Bektemir Melikuziev. Kovalev ended up testing positive for synthetic testosterone, a banned substance. As a result, the bout has been canceled.

McGirt told TASS that he didn’t know about Kovalev’s positive test (h/t BoxingScene.com).

“I work with Sergey, we were in the process of preparation. We saw each other recently, he did not say anything to me. I am not aware of the positive doping test.

Golden Boy Promotions issued the following statement after news of Kovalev’s failed drug test surfaced.

“The Kovalev vs. Melikuziev boxing event scheduled for January 30 has been canceled following a positive test for a banned substance (synthetic testosterone) on behalf of Sergey Kovalev through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA).

“Upon learning of Kovalev’s adverse finding, the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) determined that they must cancel the event.”

Kovalev was hoping to rebound from his last outing back on November 2, 2019. He lost the WBO Light-Heavyweight Title after being knocked out in the 11th round. Stick with FIGHT SPORTS for the latest updates on Kovalev’s fighting future.