Boxing and Performance-Enhancing Drugs

The use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) in the sport of boxing is believed to be more widespread than originally thought. This is especially true at the more competitive, elite levels of boxing. However, this does not diminish the fact that PEDs are used at all levels, including the amateur ranks. The pressure to perform and possibly excel within the elite ranks of boxing drives athletes to use these substances. Given the physically and emotionally rigorous demands, the lure of PEDs mixed with the prestige and wealth is many times too strong for eager, young athletes to ignore.

Several different organizations regulate the use of PEDs in boxing, and the enforcement of the rules as well as the rules themselves are not always consistent. The World Anti-Doping ...