The 39-year-old, who overcame one-time 160lb king Felix Sturm in February on the ex-champion’s home soil, was found to have an illegal substance in his system.
Testers in Germany uncovered the adverse finding. Soliman was subsequently suspended with the result of the fight amended.
Soliman will now hope to challenge the upcoming IBF title bout winner between Daniel Geale and Darren Barker in August. He believes the IBF’s decision is the first step on the road to clearing his name.
“The IBF’s decision acknowledges I did not knowingly take any substance that was performance-enhancing. That I did not take any substance that was listed as banned in the IBF bout agreement that I signed for the Sturm fight,” Soliman said via a statement.
“I am extremely grateful and relieved with the result.
“My determination to become the IBF’s world middleweight champion is unwavering. I’m back on track, and it’s a good feeling. And I’m only two fights away from tasting the glory. I’m training hard and am in the best form of my boxing career.”
The likable Australian now hopes to get back to what he does best. There’s an announcement on Soliman’s next opponent due in the coming fortnight.
