ESPN.com writer Dan Rafael is reporting that former lightweight champion Brandon Rios failed his postfight drug test following his loss to Manny Pacquiao.
Rios actually agreed to random drug testing by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association for his Nov. 23 welterweight showdown with Pacquiao in Macau.
Rios, who lost by decision in a noncompetitive fight with Pacquiao, reportedly tested positive for the banned stimulant methylhexaneamine.
The drug is reportedly often used as a dietary supplement but also a performance-enhancing drug.
“I can say unequivocally that it was not a steroid-related substance,” Arum told ESPN.com. “It was some substance that was like a minor kind of thing that you’re not supposed to take, something you take for weight loss, like a diuretic. They say it’s not a steroid but it was something you should not have in your urine after a fight. So it went to the [Macau] commission that was in charge of the fight, and they gave him a suspension. He is allowed to appeal.”
The failed test definitely brings attention and a huge spotlight on Alex Ariza, Rios’ strength and conditioning coach. Ariza of course was previously the strength coach for Manny Pacquiao.
Top Rank promoter Bob Arum blamed the failed test on Ariza as well.
“Brandon had the genius, Ariza, trying to help him make weight,” Arum said. “It is not the fighter’s fault. It’s the people who are conditioning him. He’s following orders on what to eat and drink, so I don’t blame him. Brandon’s not a nutritionist. It’s generally the conditioner’s fault if the kid doesn’t make weight. This is Ariza’s fault.
“The fighter, in my experience, follows religiously what he is told to eat and drink. If he’s being advised by people who consider themselves experts, but who really don’t know s—, that’s when you get in trouble.”
Ariza, ironically is in San Antonio to work as Marcos Maidana’s strength and conditioning coach for his welterweight title challenge against Adrien Broner tonight at the Alamodome.