Imam Khataev fails drug test, David Morrell fight status unknown

Yesterday morning, the International Testing Association announced that undefeated light heavyweight Imam Khataev tested positive for the banned substance clomiphene in an out-of-competition drug test taken April 9th, 2024. As a result, they’ve issued a suspension until June 25th, 2027.

What makes this a bit difficult to parse is that the press release claims they imposed the suspension “on behalf of the IBA in accordance with article 8.3.3 of the IBA anti-doping rules.” The IBA is primarily an amateur outfit, though it does host regular pro events like the one that saw Jazza Dickens wreck Albert Batyrgaziev, so it’s unclear whether Khataev (10-0, 9 KO) can compete in non-IBA events like this Saturday’s showdown with David Morrell Jr.

Canadian reporter Jeff Jeffrey, who really should consider going by Jeffrey^2, claims that the Morrell fight is off. I have yet to see any official statements from Eye of the Tiger Management, Riyadh Season, or any of the other relevant parties, but will update this piece as soon as I do.

Clomiphene, a women’s fertility drug, has performance-enhancing effects on men that make it a familiar face in these sorts of articles. Conor Benn infamously tested positive for it ahead of his first planned clash with Chris Eubank Jr, as have the likes of Jon Jones, Brock Lesnar, and other athletes from all across the sporting spectrum.