Devin Haney Makes Vital Move with VADA 24/7 Testing for Clean Return

On April 20, 2024, Ryan Garcia stunned boxing with a majority decision win against Devin Haney (31-0-1 NC, 15 KOs) with the scorecards reading 112-112, while the other two were 115-109 and 114-110 for Garcia. Controversy quickly ensued with Garcia failing a VADA pre-fight and post-fight drug test, with Ostarine found in his urine. Lawsuits and unusual behaviour have dominated the news since the failed tests – but “The Dream” has now made a commendable and notable move by signing up for year-round random drug testing ahead of his proposed ring return in March.

Devin Haney Enrols in VADA Year-Round Drug Testing

Haney Chooses VADA 24/7 Testing

Former WBC super lightweight champion Haney retained his undefeated record despite the loss to Garcia. The result later changed to a no-contest. “Kingry” later accepted a one-year ban for the failed tests, leaving him suspended in the U.S. until at least April 2025. “The Dream” has recently announced his planned return for March and has now been praised by many including Victor Conte for his decision to sign up for 24/7/365 drug testing.

Read More: Eddie Hearn Discusses Devin Haney Lawsuit Against Ryan Garcia and Its Impact on Boxing

The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association is considered the highest standard for testing in the sport. Haney’s decision sends a message to the rest of the sport that he is prepared to lead the way for clean testing alongside the four-division champion Nonito Donaire who previously signed up for the same program.

WBC Statement on Haney Enrolment

The WBC has also reacted to Haney’s enrolment by releasing the following statement via their website: “WBC Super Lightweight Champion in recess Devin Haney signed up for VADA’s random testing program for the entire 2025 at his own expense, an unprecedented and exemplary act for the boxing world.”

“Thanks to the joint efforts of the WBC and VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association) under the direction of its president, Dr. Margaret Goodman, the Clean Boxing Program has yielded great results since its inception in 2016.”

Read More: Devin Haney Next Fight: Eddie Hearn Urges Warm-Up Before Garcia Rematch

“It should be noted that the priority of the WBC/VADA is to work on education and awareness to help all people involved in sport learn the terrible dangers of using performance-enhancing substances (PEDs), which eventually create major and permanent problems for the health of athletes. Devin, as well as the other boxers and world champions who have joined CBP, are an example for everyone. We appreciate their concern for the well-being and respect of our beloved sport..”

The Future

Haney was made “in recess champion” by the WBC, while he took time off from the sport following his controversial contest against Garcia. Announcing his intention to return in March is huge news for the sport. Could we see a warm-up fight for the San Francisco native before he faces Garcia in a rematch, with his ban set to end in April this year?

There is also the added intrigue – of Turki Alalshik revealing a planned March card. Could Haney appear on that?