02/20/2025
Photo Credit: Salita Promotions
Undisputed women’s heavyweight champion Claressa Shields has been ordered to show cause by the World Boxing Organization (WBO) following a positive test for THC (marijuana) after her February 2 victory over Danielle Perkins. The WBO’s ruling comes amid a wave of controversy stemming from erroneous claims made by “4 Decade Career 24/7/365 Boxing Lifer” Rick Glaser, who falsely reported that Shields had tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).
WBO President Gustavo Olivieri confirmed that Shields’ positive test was detected via an oral swab conducted by the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission, after her bout against Perkins. While marijuana is not classified as a PED under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, it remains a prohibited substance due to its classification under two specific criteria:
It poses a health risk to athletes.
It violates the spirit of sport.
Photo Credit: Salita Promotions
As a result of the positive test, the WBO has issued a formal notice to Shields, giving her 30 days to provide a response explaining why she should not face severe disciplinary measures, which may include:
Being stripped of the WBO Women’s Heavyweight Championship.
Being removed from the WBO rankings.
Receiving a ban from the WBO rankings for no less than two years.
Any other sanctions the WBO deems appropriate under its policies and regulations.
Should Shields fail to respond within the given timeframe, the WBO Committee will proceed accordingly, and she will forfeit her right to any further hearings or appeals.
Photo Credit: Salita Promotions
Shields’s response suggests she plans to challenge the result of the test and seek further clarification on the findings.
In an exclusive statement to Brunch Boxing, Shields vehemently denied any use of marijuana, stating:
“I don’t smoke, never have and don’t take no candies. So we’re going through the procedures.”
Shields is currently under indefinite suspension by the Michigan Unarmed Combat Commission, pending adjudication of her case. Shields maintains her innocence, and plans to clear her name.
Photo Credit: Rick Glaser
Shields is also expected to file a lawsuit against Rick Glaser for spreading false information regarding her drug test. Glaser had erroneously reported that Shields tested positive for PEDs, a claim that quickly gained traction before being debunked. The disinformation has had serious implications for Shields’ reputation and career, and she appears determined to hold Glaser accountable for the damage caused.
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