Lawrence Okolie faces a major setback. The British heavyweight failed a doping test before his Paris fight against Tony Yoka. The bout happens this Saturday, April 25.
Queensberry Promotions received the news Monday night. VADA reported Okolie’s “adverse finding” from a pre-fight test. They promise updates soon on the fight’s status.
The 33-year-old Okolie hopes “sense prevails.” He links the result to injury treatment. Last year, a bicep injury hit. This camp brought an elbow problem on the same arm.
Okolie posted on social media. “I had treatment on it and now we’re here,” he writes. He pledges full cooperation and expects clearance after investigation.
Okolie reigned as cruiserweight and bridgerweight world champion. He moved to heavyweight in 2024. Three undefeated fights followed. He stopped Ebenezer Tetteh last December.
Yoka brings Olympic gold from 2016. The Paris showdown carried big stakes for both boxers’ careers.
