NSAC Rules to Proceed With Luis Ortiz Disciplinary Hearing

By Jake Donovan

Luis Ortiz will eventually have to face the Nevada State Athletic Commission for possible disciplinary action as a result of his failed drug test from September 11. A motion to dismiss complaint for disciplinary action was unanimously denied by the commission during Friday’s monthly agenda hearing in Nevada.

A separate motion to compel production of documents and items requested pursuant to the case was also unanimously denied by the commission.

“In regard to the motion for dismissal, there is not an opportunity for an oral argument,” explained Commissioner Skip Lundvall during Friday’s hearing, when initially requested by Ortiz’ legal team to have such matters removed from the agenda entirely due to his absence. “Those are the types of motions that are submitted on paper.”

The heavyweight is still attempting to clear his name after testing positive for a banned substance following his 1st round knockout win over Lateef Kayode on September 11 in Las Vegas. The appeal filed by Ortiz’ camp hoped for the matter to be tabled, given his inability to directly participate.

As explained by the commission, Ortiz’ physical presence isn’t required in order to proceed with matters, and thus not grounds to delay matters any longer.

“We’re trying to accomplish two things here,” explained Lundvall. “One—save the fighters some money, not having to fly to and from here. Two, (the commission is) trying to move this matter along in a timely fashion. We’re trying to hear the evidence as quickly as we can, so that the evidence is fresh and avoid a long-drawn out process as to prompt a delay.”

Ortiz (22-0, 19KOs) was named interim WBA heavyweight titlist with the aforemenetioned win, a distinction that put him in line for a possible future title shot at World heavyweight king Wladimir Klitschko. However, the failed drug test dramatically changes that dynamic, thus greatly compromising his ranking.

At age 35, the concern on the part of Ortiz and his handlers is that a suspension will functionally kill the Cuban’s pro career. As far as the commission is concerned, it’s a matter he should have taken into greater consideration before putting himself in this position.

“There has been enough time for (Ortiz) to address these matters,” noted Lundvall before moving to proceed with the agenda item and eventually denying all motions. “The motion possesses the findings, which is an issue of fact. You are supposed to accept the facts as alleged in the complaints as truth.”
 
Jake Donovan is the Managing Editor of BoxingScene.com, as well as the Records Keeper for the Transnational Boxing Ratings Board and a member of Boxing Writers Association of America. Twitter: @JakeNDaBox