Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
WBN Editor
Kayode result changed to no decision
Former IBO cruiserweight champion Antonio Tarver once
against protested his innocence yesterday as the California State Athletic
Commision upheld his one-year ban for testing positive following his bout
against Lateef Kayode in June.
The 43 year-old, who was recently stripped of his world
title, had hoped to have his ban for alleged steroid use shortened upon appeal, although will now
be out of action wl into next year. The outcome of his draw with the
US-based Nigerian has also been corrected to a no decision, leaving Tarver
stunned by the final ruling.
"I really am surprised they didn't shorten the
suspension," Tarver told ESPN.com.
"I can't explain why it was in my system because I don't know why it was
in my system. But I know I've never taken any steroids. That's my story and I'm
sticking to it."
Kayode, 29, now remains on 18-0, but missed out of the
chance to claim the vacant belt previously held by Tarver as Australian former
title holder Danny Green was chose to fight Shane Cameron next month to crown a
new champion.