Julio Cesar Martinez Receives Nine-Month Ban for Failing Drug Test

Julio Cesar Martinez has reportedly received a nine-month suspension by the Nevada State Athletic Commission following a drug test from twelve rounds of his decision win over Angelino Cordova on March 30 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The battle has now changed from one of winning to one of not competing.

Fans Ask For Waiver Of Suspension

Martinez (21-3, 15 KOs) successfully defended his WBC flyweight title in his victory over Cordova (18-1-1, 12 KOs). According to RingMagzine, Martinez, 29, tested positive for S5 diuretics and other masking agents in his victory.

Some fans on social media are complaining about the suspension, wondering why Julio Martinez wasn’t given the full twelve months like Ryan Garcia, who was banned for a year by the New York State Athletic Commission after testing positive for the PED Ostarine in his fight. against WBC light welterweight champion Devin Haney on April 20.

It’s not clear why the Nevada Commission gave Martinez a lesser suspension than Ryan Garcia received by the New York Commission, but things may be a little tougher in a hotter climate than on the East Coast.

Martinez’s Recent Success and Possible Return

Julio Cesar Martinez had won his last three fights since losing to Roman ‘Chocolatito’ Gonzalez in March 2022. Martinez bounced back in impressive fashion, looking better than ever and dominating his opposition.

It will be interesting to see if Martinez can bounce back from this recent career setback. A nine-month ban is not a long time, so, in theory, he should only miss one fight, given that he only competes twice a year.

Since Martinez has already fought once this year, he should be ready to fight twice a year starting in 2025.

There is no word if Martinez’s nine-month ban will be reinstated for his last fight in March. If that’s the case, Martinez could be ready to move on in as little as six months, which would be easy for him and could anger fans.

Given Julio Cesar Martinez’s popularity and aggressive fighting style that resonates with the fans, he will continue to be in demand after his suspension ends. All-action fighters like Martinez bring in better ratings than guys who defend, punch, run, and hold for 12 rounds.