‘Big Daddy’ tested positive for Clenbuterol in his ‘A’ sample following a world title victory over Ruslan Chagaev in March. It took over a month for the ‘B’ sample findings to follow, and upon the results matching up, Browne lost his coveted championship belt and was subsequently banned for six months.
The 37 year-old has vehemently denied any wrongdoing from the word go and says a pre-fight steak could have been the culprit in what could allegedly be sabotage on the part of a member of Chagaev’s team.
Margules now has to kick-off what could be a long drawn-out process in a bid to reverse the decision against Browne’s as the fighter himself kept quiet when the World Boxing Association made their decision public on Thursday night.
At this stage, a lawsuit has not been ruled out.
“I have only just received the decision last night without prior notice or a hearing. I am digesting it and speaking with the team to discuss our options,” Margules exclusively told World Boxing News.
“We are not sure of anything yet as we just got this decision. I am doing research as we speak and will see where we go from here.”
Asked his thoughts on the length of the ban, which was granted leniency due to the nature of the failure, Margules added: “Maybe the ban is six months to try and discourage us from going to court.”
To his credit, Browne has remained dignified throughout the whole ordeal and has a wave of public support behind him. Having his name smeared in this way hasn’t gone down well with the knockout artist though and the unbeaten fighter has vowed to do everything necessary to clear his name.
Browne could conceivably fight again this September once his ban expires, although no decision has yet been made on a potential comeback this year.
Ruslan Chagaev has been given the opportunity to reclaim his title should he reverse his initial decision to retire following the tenth round loss.
