World ranked super lightweight Batyr Ahkmedov has reacted to the news, first reported by BoxingScene.com, that WBA world champion Alberto Puello had tested positive for clomiphene, a performance enhancing drug.

Puello was scheduled to defend his world title against Rolando Romero as the main bout of a Showtime televised tripleheader on May 13 in Las Vegas.

He was removed from the fight, with Romero facing number one ranked Ismael Barroso for the WBA's vacant interim-title.

Akhmedov, (9-2, 8 KOs) lost a split decision to Puello, when they battled for the WBA title, on August 20, 2022 in Hollywood, FL.

Puello will now be investigated by the World Boxing Association. After their review of Puello's explanation, the sanctioning body will make a final determination on his title status.

While not outright saying it, Akhmedov appears to believe that Puello was enhanced during their fight. 

“We fought for the title last August and I knew something was off in the fight,” said the Los Angeles based southpaw. I thought I was winning the fight and hitting him with the harder punches, he was just trying to survive.  But in life, things like this usually catch up to you. I hope that justice will be served and I can fight for the world title again soon.

“Our fight was the last fight for both of us and looking back on it now, I’m very suspicious about what might have taken place. I’ve fought in hundreds of amateur and professional bouts and can see when another boxer just doesn’t look right.”

Akhmedov is ranked at third by the WBA, but Ohara Davies - ranked at two - is next in line to face the winner of Romero vs. Barroso. However, all of that depends on whether or not a mandate will be issued for the winner to face Puello.