Drug testing & lawsuits: A game changing case for boxing – A closer look at the Haney v Garcia legal battle
Boxing, a sport of strength, strategy, and endurance, has always been under the scrutiny of anti-doping authorities. The integrity of the sport relies on the assurance that athletes compete on a level playing field.
In a dramatic turn of events, Devin Haney has now filed a lawsuit against Ryan Garcia in the USA, alleging battery, fraud, and unjust enrichment following Garcia's failed test for the banned substance Ostarine. The legal battle stems from their controversial bout in April this year, which saw Garcia win by majority decision, only for the result to be overturned to a “no-contest” after Garcia’s failed drug test. In this article we look at the current anti-doping regulations and the potential impact that this case will have on boxing, should Haney succeed.
The Current Deterrent
On home turf, England Boxing relies on UK Anti-Doping and its International Federation to create a set of anti-doping rules to ensure boxing remains clean in England. These rules meet the requirements set out in the World Anti-Doping Code (the “WADA Code”). Similarly, the International Boxing Association and World Boxing have also implemented anti-doping regulations which implement the WADA Code.
At present, a violation of the WADA Code can lead to a ban from the sport. Bans range in length and can be temporary or permanent, and temporary bans have been handed down to some of boxing’s biggest stars, such as Tyson Fury and Canelo Alvarez. Although a ban from sport for doping can have a significant impact on an athlete’s career, the fans and media soon forget in some cases and business is often resumed as usual. This often raises the question as to whether the WADA Code serves as a viable deterrent. That’s a point for wider debate.
Following Garcia’s failed drug test, he was suspended for 1 year, ordered to forfeit his $1m fight purse and pay a $10,000 fine. After taking sponsorships and pay-per-view figures into account, various sources have suggested Garcia still pocketed $50m for this fight, with Haney earning $35m.
Haney’s Claim
Haney has directed his claim against Garcia and his promoter, Golden Boy Promotions. The claim demands a full review and adjustment of the accounting for their fight, which has now been marred by allegations of performance-enhancing drug (“PED”) use. Haney's legal team also argue that Garcia's PED use has caused significant damage to Haney, both financially and reputationally. Considering the staggering amounts both fighters earned, there is no doubt that the damages sought will be significant.
Potential Impact on Boxing
Haney’s claim is being pursued in the United States under the laws of New York. Although legally it will only therefore create a precedent in that specific jurisdiction, Haney’s claim could have far-reaching implications for the sport of boxing more widely:
- Stricter enforcement of anti-doping regulations: A successful claim could lead to more stringent enforcement of anti-doping regulations. Boxing authorities across the globe may follow suit and implement harsher penalties for fighters who fail drug tests, including longer suspensions and heavier fines.
- Financial repercussions for violators: Boxers found guilty of violating anti-doping regulations could face significant financial liabilities. This could include compensatory damages to their opponents for lost earnings and reputational damage, as well as punitive damages to deter future violations.
- Increased accountability for promoters: Promoters could also be held accountable for their fighters' actions. This might lead to more rigorous testing protocols and greater scrutiny of fighters' training regimens to ensure compliance with anti-doping rules.
- Enhanced integrity of the sport: A win for Haney could enhance the integrity of boxing by demonstrating a zero-tolerance policy towards doping. This could help restore public trust and confidence in the sport, attracting more fans and sponsors.
Conclusion
Haney's claim against Garcia is more than just a personal battle. It has the potential to reshape the landscape of professional boxing. By holding fighters and promoters accountable for anti-doping violations in forums outside of WADA / national anti-doping agencies, the sport could see a new era of fairness and integrity. As the legal proceedings unfold, the boxing community will be watching closely, aware that the outcome could have lasting effects on the sport's future.
For further information about Irwin Mitchell's Sport Sector team, contact Thomas Barnard or click here.
