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Antonio Tarver shocked as one-year ban is rubberstamped

Phil D. Jay 
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.

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