By Hilmar Rojas
The legal committee of the World Boxing Association has notified Cuban heavyweight Luis Ortiz (21-0, 18KOs), and his team, that a decision was rendered to remove his status as being the interim champion, based on championship rules of the sanctioning body.
According to the State Athletic Commission of Nevada, Ortiz tested positive for a banned steroid in the aftermath of his first round knockout win over Lateef Kayode in September 2014. The fight was later changed to a no decision.
Ortiz also loses his mandatory position to get a title shot at WBA 'regular' champion Ruslan Chagaev.
According to the regulations of the WBA, any fighter who tests positive for a banned substance will lose his recognition as champion. In May, Ortiz will complete a penalty imposed eight-month suspension.
