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In a big news coming in with regards to the Tokyo Olympics, wrestler Sumit Malik, who qualified for Tokyo Olympics in the 125-kg freestyle category, has been banned for two years by the United World Wrestling. Their decision comes after his “B” sample returned positive for a prohibited stimulant. Notably, Sumit was tested during the Bulgaria Olympics Qualifying event in Sofia, which took place in May.
Post receiving provisional suspension on testing positive for the banned substance, he agreed to take the “B” sample test and expectedly that also provided the same result.
I don’t know how I tested positive: Malik
“There was severe pain in my knee and I had taken painkillers Mobizox and Voveran. I had informed the UWW officials about it. I have taken the same painkillers before also, I don’t know how I tested positive,” Malik had earlier told PTI while pleading not guilty.
“UWW people have also informed me that the quantity of the substance is less than one per cent. It’s merely 0.5 per cent. They have told me that a clear picture will be given to me in 3-4 days,” he added.
As of now, 8 Indian wrestlers- four each in men’s and women’s freestyle- have secured Olympic berths for the upcoming games in July. However, Malik’s ban comes as a big blow to the Indian Wrestling Federation especially because wrestler Narsingh Yadav failed a dope test before the Rio Olympics and was subsequently banned for four years.