American boxer Claressa Shields, the undisputed world champion in three weight classes, has been suspended and is under investigation after testing positive for marijuana following her victory over heavyweight Danielle Perkins in Michigan.
The Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission suspended the 29-year-old athlete from competing within the state after an “oral fluid sample” taken after the fight on February 2 showed the presence of marijuana, which is banned in competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
“Ms. Shields’ conduct as a licensed skilled boxer constitutes an instantaneous threat to the integrity of skilled boxing, the general public interest, and the welfare and safety of skilled athletes,” the Michigan Commission said on Thursday.
The World Boxing Organization (WBO), which doesn’t have the authority to suspend boxers, has requested a “show notice” from Shields to offer a proof. The Michigan Commission can also be conducting its own investigation to find out if disciplinary motion is mandatory.
Shields, the one boxer to carry every major world title – WBA, WBC, IBF and WBO – in three weight classes and a two-time Olympic gold medallist, took to social media last week posting, “Clean athletes win”.
Under the World Boxing Council Clean Boxing Program, each Shields and Perkins have been tested by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA).
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