Jarrell Miller 'fails' second drugs test as Anthony Joshua waits on new opponent

According to initial reports, the heavyweight first tested positive for the banned substance GW1516 but a new test has now allegedly returned traces of human growth hormone (HGH)

Alan O'Brien
Friday 19 April 2019 13:31 EDT
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Anthony Joshua faces off with Jarrell Miller

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Jarrell Miller has failed a second drugs test ahead of his heavyweight title fight with Anthony Joshua, according to promoter Eddie Hearn.

The American’s boxing license was revoked in New York State after it emerged he had returned an adverse finding from a volunary doping test on 20 March.

According to initial reports, the heavyweight tested positive for the banned substance GW1516, which boosts endurance and helps athletes burn fat.

Now, Hearn claims Miller has failed a second Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) test. ESPN reports that the banned substance human growth hormone (HGH) was detected in the fighter's urine.

"We have now received news from VADA that Jarrell Miller has now failed a second seperate [sic] test for a further substance," Hearn said on Twitter. "AJ’s June 1 opponent will be announced next week - if you don’t think you can beat him clean then delete my number!"

Miller, who was due to fight WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO world champion Joshua on 1 June in New York, wrote on his Instagram account he was devastated upon hearing his boxing license was revoked in New York State.

“I have NEVER knowingly taken any banned substance and when I found out the news last night I was totally shocked,” Miller said on Instagram following news of his first failed drugs test.

“My team and I stand for integrity, decency & honesty and together we will stand to fight this with everything we have!”

Miller also said the first test was a voluntary one that he was happy to take and added that the results came one week after another voluntary test he took was completely clean.

“Remember don’t believe everything you hear and see. The facts will prevail and I shall be vindicated,” said Miller.

“I don’t have anything to hide and the truth will make itself known.”

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