The World Boxing Association has suspended its "regular" heavyweight champion, Manuel Charr (31-4, 17 KO), for six months stemming from his positive drug tests prior to a scheduled bout against Fres Oquendo (37-8, 24 KO) on Sept. 29.
Epitrenbolone and drostanolone, two anabolic steroids, were found in Charr's system, leading to the cancelation of that fight.
The tests were administered by VADA (Volunteer Anti-Doping Agency), and the results were reported to the WBA on Sept.19 from a urine sample collected from Charr on Aug. 31 in Cologne, Germany. A second urine sample opened by VADA also was positive.
According to Rule C.45 in the WBA, "No boxer who has tested positive for prohibited substances can be rated, retain a title, or be permitted to fight in a sanctioned bout for a period of no less than six (6) months from the date of the positive test. Only the official testing authorized or directed by the Association or local commission shall be considered. No independent or after-the-fact testing will be considered."
The WBA Championship Committee ruled on Monday that Charr also must submit to ongoing drug testing with VADA in addition to serving the suspension.