Toney tests positive for banned substance?

By G. Leon and Scott Shaffer

10/05/2005

Toney tests positive for banned substance?

WBA title could revert back to Ruiz!

Reports are swirling in boxing circles that James Toney may have tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs when he defeated John Ruiz for the WBA heavyweight title on April 30, 2005. So far, the report has not been definitively confirmed as Hugo Spindola of New York Athletic Commission declined to confirm or deny the matter and Fight Fax said it had received no notification of any suspension. Yesterday, John Ruiz abruptly ended his retirement only eight days after it was announced, and the haste of the announcement seems to be an indication that he too has heard the rumors.  Under WBA rules, if Toney's positive test is confirmed by a second result, the heavyweight title would revert back to the former champion, hence the need for Ruiz to be considered an active boxer.  The WBA drug policy also states that a boxer who tests positive cannot compete for a WBA title for two years.  Boxingtalk called the offices of Toney's promoter Dan Goossen, but neither Goossen nor Toney were available for immediate comment. However, we will continue our efforts to confirm what must be considered a rumor at this time. Remember where you heard it first! (4:30 PM ET)