Lucas Browne stripped of WBA title, banned for six months

 
LUCAS Browne has been stripped of his heavyweight title by the World Boxing Association (WBA).

 
Browne, 37, became Australia’s first ever heavyweight titleholder and the WBA regular champion by scoring a come-from-behind tenth round knockout over reigning champion Ruslan Chagaev in Grozny back in March.

 
However, Browne’s status as champion had been thrown in limbo shortly after when the Perth resident tested positive for clenbuterol, a sympathomimetic amine that is commonly used in sport as a fat burning tool.

 
Despite passing an independent polygraph test, the WBA decided to strip Browne and suspend him for six months.

I’m leaving everything to my lawyer, Mr Leon Margules. I thank everyone for their support, especially the people and fans of Australia.

— Lucas Browne (@lucasBrowne) May 13, 2016

 
The stripping went public on Friday morning when the organisation released a statement discussing the issue.

 
“The minimum suspension is appropriate due to the circumstances of the negative pre-bout testing only one week before the bout and Browne’s arguments relating to the minimal levels detected and lack of any logical competitive advantage,”

 
“Notwithstanding, Browne participated in the bout with a prohibited substance in his system,”

 
“Regardless of any arguments to the contrary, athletes do not always act rationally or logically when it comes to striving for that competitive edge in competition, whether real or merely perceived.” the statement concluded.

 
“Whether Browne knowingly or voluntarily took the prohibited substance is of no consequence concerning the no contest ruling and only carries any weight for purposes of determining the suspension period,”

 
“The boxer and his representatives are ultimately responsible for what the boxer ingests.”

Single, focused, happy, dedicated, driven, ready to take over the world and chase my dreams. Shit happens but I’m more determined than ever.

— Lucas Browne (@lucasBrowne) May 14, 2016

 
Browne’s team, led by solicitor Leon Margules are seeking an avenue to appeal the decision.

 
 
Photo: Provided