SPORTSCENE

Published Wednesday, June 13, 2007

Opposing boxers fail drug tests

It was a double knockout, but not the kind that ends inside the ropes.

Three-time boxing champion James Toney has tested positive for steroids for the second time in his career, The Los Angeles Times reported today. This time though, Toney wasn’t alone.

The California State Athletic Commission announced yesterday that both Toney and his May 24 opponent, Danny Batchelder, tested positive for two types of steroids, The Times reported. Toney (70-6-3) won a split decision in the heavyweight bout in San Jose, Calif.

"We have a detailed anti-doping program in place in this state," Armando Garcia, the commission’s executive director, told The Times. "If they come here doping, they’re going to get caught."

Toney lost his 2005 title victory by decision over heavyweight champion John Ruiz and the fight was ruled a no-contest after Toney tested positive for the steroid nandrolone.

Garcia said the 38-year-old Toney tested positive for boldenone and stanazolol, while Batchelder (25-5-1) tested positive for stanazolol and oxandolone, according to The Times. His promoter, Dan Goossen, and trainer, Freddie Roach, were not very happy with the performance and were upset with his conditioning despite the victory.

Both fighters are facing one-year suspensions and a $2,500 fine pending appeal, Garcia said.