Rodriguez Doping Probe Clouds Yafai Victory

Francisco Rodriguez Jr.'s upset win over Galal Yafai for the WBC interim flyweight title on June 21, 2025, is under investigation after Rodriguez tested positive for a banned substance in a post-fight VADA test. Rodriguez, who landed a flyweight record 575 punches and won by wide unanimous decision, has denied any wrongdoing and questioned why he passed all pre-fight tests but failed after the bout. The British Boxing Board of Control and World Boxing Council are investigating, with Rodriguez's B-sample set for testing. The result of the fight and Yafai's loss may be overturned if the doping violation is confirmed, creating uncertainty for Rodriguez's future bouts and the title's status. The controversy has divided fans and experts, with some suspicious of Rodriguez's high punch output while others point to his previously clean record. The boxing authorities' final decision is pending further review.