Serrano Rematch Off: Erika Cruz Out Following ‘Atypical’ Drug Test

The Amanda Serrano vs. Erika Cruz rematch is off after Cruz returned an “atypical” result for the banned substance clenbuterol during a VADA test.

It is important to note that the test result is currently classified as an “adverse finding” rather than a definitive failure. This means the sample needs more analysis before a final ruling is made. However, given the proximity to the fight, Team Serrano and Most Valuable Promotions opted to move in a different direction.

Cruz’s situation mirrors a well-known issue in the boxing world. Clenbuterol is a substance frequently found in Mexican meat supplies. Canelo Alvarez famously tested positive for the same substance in 2018, later proving his innocence via a hair follicle test. Several other Mexican champions, including Luis Nery, Rey Vargas, and Julio Cesar Martinez, have faced similar “atypical” findings only to be cleared. Cruz now begins the difficult process of clearing her name.

Reaction

“Due to the atypical finding in Erika Cruz’s VADA testing prior to the event, Team Serrano was not willing to move forward with the fight. MVP unequivocally supports the decision as we never want one of our athletes to feel they are competing in a potentially unfair bout. We look forward to supporting Amanda as she now takes on Reina Tellez, a hungry contender with a highly decorated amateur background and outstanding pro career to date,” Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian (co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions)

“I’m disappointed the original fight couldn’t move forward, but my priority has always been respect for the sport. Reina Tellez is a tough opponent who’s earned this opportunity, and I am up for the challenge. Fighting at home in Puerto Rico, defending my world titles, and continuing to push women’s boxing forward under equal rules means everything to me. Saturday, January 3, is about showing the world once again what Puerto Rican fighters are made of,” Serrano said

“This is the moment I’ve been fighting for my whole life. To step into the ring with a champion like Amanda Serrano, someone I’ve looked up to, is an honor, but I’m not here just to share the spotlight. I’m here to win. I represent San Antonio, I represent every fighter chasing a dream, and I’m coming with everything I’ve got. On fight night, the world’s going to see just how hungry I am to make history,” Tellez

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