Subriel Matías: Positive in anti-doping test and his WBC title at risk

Subriel Matías on the Tightrope: Title at Risk Due to Possible Doping

The reign of WBC junior lightweight world champion Subriel Matias could be in jeopardy without having defended his title even once. Matías (23-2, 22 KOs) tested positive for a banned substance in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) test before his title defense against Dalton Smith, scheduled for January 10 in Brooklyn. The substance that Matías tested positive for was ostarine, a performance-enhancing drug.

“The WBC has received notification from VADA regarding an adverse finding from a test conducted on the WBC super lightweight champion, Subriel Matias,” stated WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman. “The WBC has initiated the investigation process according to the Clean Boxing Program protocol. I have spoken with our champion Subriel and his promoter, Mr. Orengo, and they have expressed their absolute willingness and cooperation as the process unfolds.”

Mauricio Sulaiman, President of the WBC

Matías has until December 1st to request a test of his B sample, something his team indicated they will do. In a statement, they expressed that they would not comment until they know the results of the B sample. Matías, 33 years old, won the title for the second time by defeating Alberto Puello in July. The positive not only puts the January 10th fight at risk, but Matías could be stripped of his title if his B sample also tests positive. It is uncommon for the B sample to not match the A sample. Ostarine is the same substance that Ryan Garcia tested positive for after his fight with Devin Haney in 2024. Garcia’s victory was overturned and turned into a “no decision,” and he was suspended for a year by the New York State Athletic Commission. The same commission will oversee the Matias-Smith fight.