Lawrence Okolie releases statement after failing doping test ahead of Tony Yoka fight

Jack Otway
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:44:49 +0000

British heavyweight Lawrence Okolie has returned an adverse finding in an anti-doping test, forcing the cancellation of his scheduled bout against Tony Yoka in Paris this Saturday.

Queensberry promotions confirmed the news on Tuesday morning, stating on X: "Last night, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) informed Queensberry that Lawrence Okolie returned an adverse finding following an anti-doping test conducted ahead of the show in Paris this Saturday."

The promoter indicated that further details about the event would follow.

Yoka, an Olympic gold medallist, had been set to face the London-born fighter in what was expected to be a significant heavyweight clash.

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The contest represented a crucial juncture in Okolie's heavyweight career, with the 33-year-old currently holding the WBC's top ranking in the division.

Victory over Yoka would have strengthened his position to challenge for the WBC heavyweight world championship, a prize that now appears significantly more distant.

Instead of preparing for what could have been a career-defining performance, the Londoner must now focus on clearing his name through the appropriate channels.

The adverse finding has effectively derailed his momentum at a time when he appeared to be building towards the biggest opportunities in boxing's marquee division.

Okolie established himself as a world champion at cruiserweight before making the decision to compete at heavier weights.

His transition proved successful, with the fighter claiming the WBC bridgerweight title in the newly created division.

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Prior to this setback, he had assembled an impressive run of form, securing three consecutive victories since moving up in weight class.

That winning streak had positioned him as a genuine contender in the heavyweight ranks, making the timing of this adverse finding particularly damaging to his career trajectory.

The former cruiserweight king now faces an uncertain period as he awaits the outcome of any investigation.

Okolie moved swiftly to address the situation on social media, urging observers not to jump to conclusions.

He explained: "Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp.

"I had a treatment on it and now we are here."

The boxer expressed hope that "sense prevails" in the matter.

He confirmed his intention to work with all relevant bodies investigating the case, adding: "I will of course be fully co-operating with all relevant authorities and I'm confident any investigation will clear name."

Okolie stated he would make no further public comment for the time being.