Amir Khan banned for two years after failing drug test

04 April 2023 , 08:12

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Amir Khan banned for two years after failing drug test

Amir Khan has been banned from boxing for two years after failing a drug test in the aftermath of his defeat by Kell Brook last year.

Khan was stopped in the sixth round of his grudge fight with bitter rival Brook 14 months ago in what proved to be his final professional bout. Khan, 36, later announced his retirement but it has now been revealed he failed a drug test shortly after the final bell.

The former world champion tested positive for the banned substance ostarine which can be found in supplements and which can aid muscle growth. Khan was made aware of the failed test last April before being charged two months later.

Kell Brook KO'd Amir Khan (Paul Currie/REX/Shutterstock)

The fighter accepted the presence of the substance but insisted he had ingested it accidentally. His case was then heard earlier this year with a decision reached in February that Khan had not intentionally cheated.

A statement from UK Anti-Doping read: "Professional boxer and Olympic medallist Amir Khan has been banned from all sport for two years following Anti-Doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) for the presence and use of a Prohibited Substance.

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"On February 19, 2022, UK Anti-Doping (UKAD) collected an In-Competition urine Sample from Mr Khan after his fight against Kell Brook at the Manchester Arena. Mr Khan's Sample returned an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) for ostarine.

Khan in action against Brook (Getty Images)

"Ostarine is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). The substance is listed on the World Anti-Doping Agency's (WADA) 2022 Prohibited List as an anabolic agent and is prohibited in sport at all times."

Khan shot to prominence when he won Olympic silver in 2004 aged just 17. He went on to become a two-weight world champion in the professional ranks but lost three of his last six fights, including a brutal knockout against Canelo Alvarez.

In announcing his retirement last May, Khan said: "It's time to hang up my gloves. I feel blessed to have had such an amazing career that has spanned over 27 years. I want to say a heartfelt thanks and to the incredible teams I have worked with and to my family, friends and fans for the love and support they have shown me."

Martin Domin