Julio Cesar Martinez Could Be In for a Lengthy Suspension
The reputation of former WBC flyweight champion Julio Cesar Martinez has taken a decided turn for the worse. Recent news suggests there’s a distinct possibility that Martinez will be out of action for the foreseeable future, due to suspension. The reason: El Rey has tested positive for a banned substance regarding his March 30 majority decision victory over Angelino Cordova in Las Vegas, Nevada.
According to the Nevada State Athletic Commission, testing of Martinez’s sample detected an S5 diuretic and other masking agents. Martinez will meet with the commission on June 25.
TAKING A TURN FOR THE WORSE?
When Martinez won the flyweight strap in October 2019, he appeared on the fast track to stardom in boxing’s lower-weight divisions. Things didn’t turn out that way.
His title reign was filled with bouts of illness, injuries, and struggles to make the 112-pound flyweight limit. As a result, his title defenses have been up and down. In one fight, he looked like the second coming of Roberto Duran. He would then follow that up by looking ordinary and vulnerable.
In May 2024, he announced his intentions to move up to 115 pounds. But junior bantamweight is currently one of the best divisions in the sport. On the surface, it will be difficult for him to have the same level of success that he enjoyed at 112.
Inconsistent performances followed by testing positive for a banned substance. The reputation of El Rey has taken another hit.
