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Former light heavyweight world champion Jean Pascal has announced that his association with veteran trainer Stephan Larouche has ended.
“After winning a world title and twice being world champion, Stephan Larouche and I both agreed that it would be better to end our association on a high note after a successful defense of the world title,” stated Pascal.
The Quebecer had successfully defended the World Boxing Association (WBA) “regular” light heavyweight championship on December 28, 2019 against Badou Jack. In a battle that saw both boxers hit the mat, Pascal won a close twelve round split decision win.
The two pugilists were scheduled to fight again on June 6, as the co-featured pay-per-view attraction to the exhibition clash between Floyd Mayweather and Logan Paul.
But, the fight was called off when Pascal tested positive for several banned substances as part of the WBA’s Clean Boxing Program.
Once the positive tests became known, Pascal fired his strength and conditioning coach.
Pascal had kind words for the coach who had been by his side since 2016.
“Stephan is one of the best coaches I have worked with and I have no doubt that he will remain a staple in Quebec boxing for many years to come,” Pascal stated.
Following his positive tests for banned substances,” the WBA removed Pascal from his position as world champion and suspended him for six months.