Eddie Hearn calls for consequences!
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn explained his comment about Jarrell Miller being viewed as a possible opponent for rival promoter Frank Warren’s charismatic heavyweight, Tyson Fury. The DAZN matchmaker faced heavy criticism from his fellow rival for speaking out against Miller.
In an interview with Fighthype, the flamboyant promoter would clarify his explanation.
“All I said was it’s too raw […] this guy failed three drug tests for three different substances. It was eight weeks ago.”
“Can we just see a punishment or let him sit out of the game for a little bit and at least take it on the chin?”
Hearn would make it clear that there isn’t any malice towards the New York native heavyweight.
“I like Jarrell Miller. I’ve done everything I could for Miller. I gave him untold opportunities, made him a lot of money.”
“But what he did was wrong and he’s gotta pay the price. And if we don’t make an example of things like that, what message is that to give to the sport of boxing?”
Many inside the boxing community agree that Miller’s failed drug tests are severe transgressions. The worst in boxing history, in fact. This didn’t just cost him the highest payday of his career, but a chance at becoming the unified champion. The United Kingdom promoter would get plenty of support from several fans and pundits sharing the same sentiments.
Failing three straight PED tests with different substances is a gross offense. So much so, many in fact, felt the punishment didn’t fit the crime.
A Persistent Problem
Miller is currently serving a six month suspension. Afterwards, he would be eligible to apply for a license possibly in September. There is no guarantee that the former heavyweight title contender will receive a license. In such an event, this would be a huge hiccup for the Fury camp.
Now, some will try to counter Hearn’s argument by mentioning the names Canelo Alvarez and Alexander Povetkin. Both failed PED tests, yet were able fight in big title bouts. Although those are valid points, there is more to the story. Besides, there is the fact this was an agreed upon scheduled rematch.
Alvarez’s failed PED six month ban was retroactive back to the first reported failed test. However, it did cancel the scheduled 2018 Cinco de Mayo bout, which was rescheduled for the September 2018.
Povetkin’s was a mandatory through the WBA when the WBC removed him from their rankings. This arose from two reported failed PED tests in two different fights against WBC champion Deontay Wilder and former world champion Bermane Stiverne.
Bottom line is the number of failed PED tests within boxing has gotten out of control and perhaps more strenuous measures need to be taken.
By: Garrisson Bland
