Smith title fight on despite Matias adverse drug sample

Briton Dalton Smith’s world-title challenge against WBC light-welterweight champion Subriel Matias remains on, despite the champion returning adverse drug-test findings.

The Puerto Rican tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine in a Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) out-of-competition test taken on 9 November.

A ‘B’ sample also returned an adverse finding, but the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) says the concentration detected was below the threshold used by major boxing jurisdictions, meaning the fight in New York on 10 January can proceed.

“The New York State Athletic Commission is aware that Mr Matias, who is currently licensed, has received an adverse analytic finding from VADA concerning an out of competition test,” the commission told BBC Sport.

“The reported concentration was below the applicable threshold used by multiple jurisdictions, including Nevada, California, and New York.”

The commission added that Matias has been cooperative but that the situation remains under review and he will be subject to additional testing.

It added: “At this time the fight is scheduled to proceed on 10 January 2026.”

Ostarine, a non-steroidal drug used to support muscle growth, has been on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned substance list since 2008.

Following the initial A-sample finding, the WBC said it had identified mitigating factors in Matias’ case.

The sanctioning body indicated the adverse result was linked to the fighter’s use of supplements known to carry a risk of Ostarine contamination, adding that the levels detected were low and consistent with accidental ingestion.

However, the organisation has placed him on a 12-month probation period.

The WBC also warned that any further positive test during the probationary period would result in an indefinite suspension, pending further investigation.

Sheffield’s Smith, 28, has won all 18 of his professional bouts, and his team have said he will not pull out of the contest.