Lawrence Okolie will not be replaced for his scheduled bout with Tony Yoka, with the entire Paris event now officially cancelled following his failed drug test.
The heavyweight contest was set to headline a Queensberry Promotions card at the Adidas Arena, but plans collapsed after Okolie returned an adverse finding from a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association test. Reports later indicated the substance involved was GHRP-2 and its M8 metabolite, a synthetic compound that stimulates the release of human growth hormone.
Promoter Frank Warren had initially explored the possibility of securing a replacement opponent for Yoka, but organizers ultimately decided to cancel the event altogether. A statement confirmed the decision, citing circumstances beyond their control and advising ticket holders to seek refunds.
Okolie addressed the situation on social media, referencing prior injuries and confirming he would cooperate fully with the investigation. He expressed confidence that the process would clear his name, while declining to provide further comment at this stage.
Image Credit: The Ring