WBC junior lightweight champion Sabriel Matias’ upcoming title defense may be at risk following a positive test for a banned substance. Matias (23-2, 22 KOs) returned a positive result for ostarine, a performance-enhancing drug, in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) test ahead of his scheduled fight against Dalton Smith on January 10th in Brooklyn.
Sources confirmed to ESPN that Matias tested positive for ostarine, with Ring Magazine initially breaking the news. WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman stated that the organization was informed about the adverse findings and has begun an investigation in line with its Clean Boxing Program. Sulaiman also mentioned that both Matias and his promoter, Mr. Orengo, are fully cooperating with the process.
Matias has until December 1 to request a B-sample analysis, which he plans to do, and his team has said they will refrain from commenting until the results are in. The 33-year-old won his second title in July after defeating Alberto Puello.
Should the B-sample also be positive, it could not only jeopardize the January fight but also lead to Matias being stripped of his title. Historically, B-sample results rarely differ from the initial sample.
Ostarine is the same substance that led to Ryan Garcia testing positive after his 2024 bout with Devin Haney, resulting in Garcia’s win being overturned to a no contest and a one-year suspension by the New York State Athletic Commission, which will also oversee the Matias vs. Smith fight.
Fan Take: This development is significant for fight fans because it underscores the ongoing challenges the sport faces with doping issues. The outcome could have a major impact on the junior lightweight division’s title landscape and raises important questions about fairness and integrity in boxing.
