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Nkosi stripped of title after failing doping test

SHAMED: Keith Nkosi unleashes a powerful straight right on Fulufhelo Modau. PHOTO: Bafana Mahlangu
SHAMED: Keith Nkosi unleashes a powerful straight right on Fulufhelo Modau. PHOTO: Bafana Mahlangu

KEITH "Baby Beast" Nkosi has been stripped of the ABU lightweight title and been suspended for two years after failing a drugs test.

Nkosi tested positive for the banned anabolic steroid nandrolone, whose effects include muscle growth, appetite stimulation, increased blood cell production and bone density.

African Boxing Union president Houcine Houichi said Nkosi tested positive after his ABU fight in December last year. He will also be kicked out of the WBC World Cup from May, where he was to represent Africa.

Houichi, a Tunisian who is also vice-president of the Mexico-based WBC, said Nkosi could challenge the finding and ask that his B urine sample be analysed.

"In the meantime, he is suspended and if the results of the B-sample confirm the A-sample, he will then be suspended for two years, he will be stripped of the ABU title and of course he will not participate at the WBC World Cup."

Nkosi said he was told he had tested positive for steroids that are injected into the body.

"I take multi-vitamins and protein shakes. I am confused. I feel like my life has been taken away from me. Boxing is my life. Imagine being out for two years? I'm saddened by the whole thing," he said.

Nkosi's manager Brian Mitchell said it was highly unlikely that they would contest the A-sample result.

"Look, those guys (the SA Institute for Drug-free Sport) cannot get it wrong," said Mitchell. "It is sad news for us as the team, his promoter Golden Gloves as well as the country because Keith is a really talented boxer."

Trainer Harold Volbrecht was not available for comment yesterday.

Nkosi, a novice of nine fights, caused a sensation when he dropped seasoned campaigner Warren "The Warrior" Joubert three times in the first round for the ABU title on December 3.

The news of his failed drugs test comes barely a week after Mitchell announced that Nkosi would challenge WBC International junior lightweight holder Sipho Taliwe at Emperors Palace on March 18.

Meanwhile, Mitchell announced that another charge, Bongo Lipembo, cannot continue with his promising career because of medical reasons.lSee Page 36