Francois Botha dope test raises more doubts over bout

Published on 11/02/2013 04:15

FORMER All Black Sonny Bill Williams’s opponent Francois Botha failed a dope test before their heavyweight bout, the Sydney Morning Herald reported yesterday, adding further doubt to the fight’s credibility.

Botha, who was beaten on points by Williams on Friday, had tested positive for a banned appetite suppressant phentermine.

Williams took his unbeaten record to six wins in farcical circumstances when he was awarded the victory over the 44-year-old South African in a bout reduced to 10 rounds from the original 12 at the last minute.

Doubts also surfaced over the fight’s status as a purported World Boxing Association (WBA) international heavyweight title bout after it was reported that no officials from the organisation were present.

An incensed Botha described the late change of bout length as “match-fixing” and demanded a rematch with Williams, who said he would welcome such a move.