“You’re All Complete Hypocrites”: Eddie Hearn Blasts Promoters for Lack of VADA Testing for Liam Smith vs Chris Eubank Jr Rematch

In the high-octane world of boxing, safety protocols should be indisputable. Think again. Eddie Hearn, a name synonymous with boxing promotions, recently raised eyebrows. Not with a new fight announcement, but with a verbal uppercut aimed at his peers. Doping tests, usually a backstage concern, took center stage in a dramatic fashion. Hearn, never one to mince words, vented about the much-hyped rematch between Chris Eubank Jr. and Liam Smith.

While boxing fans eagerly awaited the bout, a glaring oversight lurked in the shadows. Surprisingly, it wasn’t about the fighters, their fitness, or even their strategies. It was about something as basic as testing, yet vital for the integrity of the sport. What did Hearn say that has now set tongues wagging?

Eddie Hearn unleashes: The VADA Testing Controversy

The much-anticipated rematch between Chris Eubank Jr. and Liam Smith promised fireworks in the ring. Yet, as anticipation reached a fever pitch, an off-ring detail threatened to overshadow the main event. Stunningly, the bout had no VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association) testing in place.

Eddie Hearn, never one to hold back, quickly stepped into the limelight to address this glaring oversight. “Is there VADA testing for Eubank vs Smith?” Hearn began, “I’ll give you the answer. No!” His tone was unmistakable. “If there is, it’s on VADA’s Twitter,” he continued. “They announce everybody that’s rolled in the program. There was no VADA testing.”

But Hearn didn’t stop there. Emphasizing the significance of the bout, he noted, “Understand this, it’s a pay-per-view event. Absolute joke.” Clearly exasperated, he challenged promoters and stakeholders, “You wouldn’t pay the 30 grand. So don’t talk to me, don’t make comments. You couldn’t lace my boots. Put your hand in your pocket and make the sport safer.”

Between UKAD and VADA: Hearn’s Take on Boxing’s Testing Dilemma

Hearn’s ire wasn’t just aimed at the lack of VADA testing. He also threw shade on the reliance on UKAD testing, questioning its adequacy. “And please don’t ever rely on ‘oh there’s UKAD testing.’ How many times was Liam Smith tested? How many times was Eubank tested? Look at the stats of how many British fighters are being tested under that random programme from UKAD.”

Making a compelling comparison, he pointed out, “Liam Smith might’ve been tested once, twice. If he signs up for VADA, he’s tested an extra six times across the camp.” Then, taking a jibe at commentators, he said, “And then you Simon Jordan going ‘oh well. If it’s between UKAD and VADA, I would pick UKAD every time. Shut up! Do both.” His parting shot? “You talk about wanting to make the sport safer; you’re all complete hypocrites.”

Also Read: Eddie Hearn & Frank Warren at Crossroads Over Oleksandr Usyk vs. Daniel Dubois Low Blow Controversy

When it comes to ensuring the safety and integrity of the sport, are promoters and stakeholders truly doing enough? With figures like Hearn leading the charge, one can only hope for a future where these concerns are addressed more consistently.

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