Lucian Bute tests positive for banned substance after draw with Badou Jack

Former super middleweight world champion Lucian Bute (32-3-1, 25 KOs) tested positive for a banned substance following his draw against WBC champion Badou Jack on April 30.

The WBC announced on Thursday afternoon that it was notified by the D.C. Boxing and Wrestling Commission that Bute had tested positive for a banned substance in his postfight anti-doping test.

Romanian-born Bute, who resides in Canada, tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine, also known as Enobosarm, which can be used by athletes for the purpose of improving stamina and endurance, mirroring the results that one can get by using steroids. It was put on WADA’s banned list in 2008.

"I am surprised and sorry about this," said Bute. "I don’t understand what led to this positive result. I have always passed every anti-doping test that I was asked to take since I won a world title. More recently for my fight against James DeGale, in Quebec City, last November, I was tested eight times from before my training camp until after my fight. I have never taken any illegal products. There will be an analysis of the B sample and I am sure that this result will be negative."

It is likely that the result of the fight - a majority draw in which two judges scored the bout 114-114 and one had Jack winning 117-111 - will be changed to a no-decision. Bute also could face a suspension and fine.