The WBO confirmed that middleweight champion Janibek Alimkhanuly tested positive for the banned substance Meldonium and issued a one-year suspension without stripping him of his title.

Meldonium, also sold as Mildronate, is a cardiovascular drug developed in Latvia and commonly prescribed in parts of Eastern Europe to treat heart disease by improving circulation and aerobic capacity.

The substance was added to List of banned substances of the World Anti-Doping Agency in 2016, after evidence showed it could boost endurance, recovery and oxygen utilization in athletes.

The resolution of the World Championship Committee states that the unfavorable analytical results were confirmed in both “A” and “B” samples in accordance with the VADA protocol.

The suspension is retroactive to December 2, 2025, the date of official notification of the unfavorable review.

Confirmed results of samples A and B

The ruling sets a clear timetable. Sample “A” collected on November 15, 2025 gave an unfavorable analytical result for Meldonium.

The “B” sample was opened on January 8, 2026, at a WADA-accredited laboratory, and the next day confirmation was received that it had also tested positive, matching the initial result.

Strict responsibility and powers of the WBO

The Committee invokes its authority under WBO regulations to impose discipline in the event that a participant tests positive for an illegal or performance-enhancing substance and the adverse results are confirmed by VADA and supported by WADA-accredited laboratory documentation.

The resolution also builds on strict liability, clarifying that intent or fault is not required when the presence of a prohibited substance is confirmed in an athlete’s body.

Suspension imposed, title not released

After reviewing the procedural history, including the Show Cause notices and written submissions by the Alimkhanuly Team, the Commission ordered a one-year suspension retroactive to December 2, 2025.

Because the conditions attach to reinstatement and continued recognition as a champion, Alimkhanuly must undergo comprehensive, year-long random testing under a WADA-certified anti-doping program, the results of which are certified and reported directly to the WBO.

He must also complete a mandatory anti-doping education program. The ruling states that all costs related to testing and education are to be covered by the player.

Most importantly, the resolution acknowledged that consideration had been given to vacating the WBO middleweight title.

Instead, the Committee opted for suspension, leaving Alimkhanuly recognized as champion during the ban period.

Interim title ordered, mandatory fight upon return

To keep the division moving, the WBO allowed an interim middleweight title fight between its two top contenders.

The resolution states that once his suspension expires, Alimkhanuly must immediately face the interim champion to end his interim status.

No indirect attacks are allowed.

The WBO also notes that its process operates independently of any separate government or federal proceedings related to the same matter.

A decision that will be debated

This is where the WBO will take heat.

Alimkhanuly had previously denied any wrongdoing when news of the adverse findings first broke.

“I will always support neat sport. You better know that. You also know that I promote neat sport. I am surprised to read this news. VADA has been analyzed for the first time and found everything clear. I have not made any changes to my vitamins or diet.”

“I don’t understand why this happened with the second test, we have asked for a reconsideration. We are waiting for answers!”

These comments were submitted before the WBO approved the B sample and issued its final decision.

The ruling confirms the presence of a prohibited substance in both samples and establishes strict liability, which holds the athlete liable regardless of how the substance entered the body.

On this basis alone, some will argue that removing the title would be the clearest example to set.

At the same time, doping cases are rarely decided in the court of public opinion. Players may dispute the circumstances, and proving deliberate intent is often arduous, even when the rules do not require it.

The WBO appears to have chosen a middle ground: a tough suspension with stringent compliance requirements, while refraining from vacating the belt.

Either way, the decision now shapes the middleweight division for next year, with an interim champion crowned and a mandatory fight awaiting Alimkhanuly once his suspension ends.

About the author

Phil Jay is the editor-in-chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a boxing veteran with over 15 years of experience. Read the full biography.