Jarrell Miller Returns to the Ring from PED Scandal on June 23
Well it appears that one of the most accomplished drug cheats in modern boxing history is getting another crack at success. This is because heavyweight boxer Jarrell “Big Baby” Miller (23-0-1, 20 KO’s) will return to action on June 23 versus Ariel Bracamonte (11-7, 6 KO’s). Bracamonte is 2-5 during his last seven with three of those losses coming by knockout. To make this moment a bit more surreal, Miller will fight as part of the WBA’s KO Drug Festival. This is a festival devoted to highlighting the importance of staying off drugs.
It’s so odd that Miller would make his first appearance in nearly four years here. Big Baby is essentially the poster boy for boxing drug cheats. He first was caught afoul of the rules when he was flagged for methylhexaneamine in 2014 while preparing to battle Gerald Washington. Arguably his most notorious instance of lathering his name in infamy came when he blew his shot at fighting Anthony Joshua who was unified champion at the time.
Rather than getting his shot at the big time, Miller was busted for PED’s. He was flagged for three separate illegal substances on that go-around. Then when given yet another chance, against Jerry Forest, Big Baby was once again flagged for a combo meal of illegal aids.
FOURTH TIME IS THE CHARM?
This bout with Bracamonte will stand as his fourth chance in the sport. How Miller ended up on the anti-drug card is either dark humor or the epitome of tone deaf marketing.
On the outside looking in, Miller did appear to have what it takes to be the genuine article. He was big, comfortable under the bright lights, could talk with the best of them and had jaw-dropping stamina. Now Big Baby, 33, is starting essentially from scratch. So it will be interesting to see how he is moved and who is even willing to fight him. Yet, if history is any judge in the matter, it shouldn’t be long before Miller is called to task for tainted blood.
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By: Bakari Simpson
