Last week, undisputed super featherweight boxing champion Alycia Baumgardner announced that she had been informed that samples from her most recent urinalysis tested positive for several banned substances.
Alycia Baumgardner via The MMA Hour YouTube, screenshot
“On August 12, 2023, I was informed that an ‘A Sample’ I provided on July 12, 2023 resulted in an ‘Adverse Analytical Finding’ of mesterolone and methenolone acetate metabolites, two substances I’ve never heard of or used in any way,” read Baumgardner’s statement which she posted to her X social media account.
“The sample provided immediately after my fight on July 15, 2023 tested clean and negative for all banned substances, as did my sample on June 16, 2023, which makes the July 12th result essentially impossible.
“To be abundantly clear, I know that I never have, never would, and never will take this or any other drug. Not only would doing so be unethical, but it would also be completely contrary to how I’ve trained my entire career.”
Source: Alyciambaum on X
Baumgardner continued, stating that “As a professional athlete, I and I alone am responsible for what I put in my body, and my body is a temple. I am also a proud role model for any young woman or girl who seeks to follow in my footsteps. I take those responsibilities very seriously – which is why I know that I did not and would never put these substances in my body.
“I have a lot more to say about my journey and why the very idea of me taking an illegal, banned, or even dangerous substance would never make sense,” she continued. “So I have no intention of sitting back in silence and letting this ‘play out.’ I plan to keep you all updated every step of the way as I work to ensure my reputation as a clean athlete remains fully intact.”
Featherweight champion Amanda Serrano, who has been the biggest name circulating for a potential fight with Baumgardner, also issued a comment on X wishing for the best outcome for her boxing peer and potential opponent.
Source: SerranoSisters on X
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“For all those who have messaged me in regards to [Alycia Baumgardner’s] findings I will say I am Not God, I pass no judgement on her nor will I ever rejoice on anyone’s mishaps.
“I pray the lord gives the issue clarity so the young lady can continue her quest to be the Best.”
What’s your take on the situation? Let us know in the comments below and across social media.
They can’t take away! #andstill pic.twitter.com/x4Eqky3tV8
— Alycia Baumgardner (@alyciambaum) August 17, 2023