Queensberry Promotions has announced that "the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) has informed Queensberry that heavyweight Lawrence Okolie returned an adverse finding following ant anti-doping test conducted ahead of the show in Paris [scheduled for] this Saturday. A further update regarding the event will be made in due course." A few hours later, Queensberry announced that "Due to circumstances outside of our control, Queensberry and DAZN have regrettably made the decision to cancel this Saturday's scheduled event in Paris. For refunds, please contact your ticket [vendor]." Okolie, who has held world titles at cruiserweight and bridgerweight, was set to fight former Olympic champion Tony Yoka in  Yoka's hometown this weekend.

 

Okolie posted the following statement on his Instagram account: "Before anyone starts imagining the worst, following my bicep injury last year, I sustained an elbow injury on the same arm during this camp. I had a treatment on it and now we are here. I truly hope sense prevails. I will of course be fully cooperating with all relevant authorities and I’m confident any investigation will clear my name. I won’t be making any further comment at this time. Thank you for all your support and see you soon."