Light heavyweight titlist Jean Pascal has been removed from the Logan Paul-Floyd Mayweather Jr. undercard on June 6 after failing a drug test. Pascal reportedly tested positive for epitrenbolone, drostanolone and drostanolone metabolite A. Kevin Iole of Yahoo! Sports broke the unfortunate news on Friday.
“I am shocked and embarrassed. I would never voluntarily take illegal substances. I’ve always fought for a clean sport and will continue to do so. I’m one of the first modern boxers to insist on random testing and I’ve passed countless tests during my 13 years at the highest level of boxing,” Pascal said after learning about his failed test.
Pascal’s failed test removes the potential for a summer rematch between Badou Jack. The two fought in December 2019 and Pascal retained his title by split decision. During the 12 round fight, Jack and Pascal both had to rally after being knocked to the canvas. Understandably, both men walked away feeling they had done enough to earn the title.
“Badou’s a great fighter, but nobody can say it was a robbery. It was a close fight, it was a split decision. But I definitely won that fight because I’m the champ,” Pascal said during a post-fight interview.
“But this is my brother, Pascal, he’s got a great chin. Maybe he was the better man tonight. I don’t know. I thought I was winning, but maybe I’m wrong. I would love a rematch,” Jack said moments later.
At the end of the night, Pascal said that Jack could get a rematch at “any time.” However, the pandemic took away the possibility of doing a rematch at “any time.” Now, a drug test stands in the way. There is no word as to if there are plans to reschedule the fight for a later date.
