CBP: Testosterone in Professional Boxing

In the demanding world of professional boxing, where every second in the ring can decide a career, physical preparation is as crucial as technique.

However, the pursuit of competitive advantages has led some athletes to cross dangerous boundaries. One of the most controversial substances in this fight for performance is testosterone, currently firmly banned by the VADA (Voluntary Anti-Doping Association).

Testosterone is a natural hormone in the human body, key to muscle development, strength, and aggression. However, when administered exogenously—whether through injections, gels, or patches—it can raise levels above the physiological range, generating artificial anabolic effects. In professional boxing, this translates into increased muscle mass, punching power, prolonged endurance, and abnormally rapid recovery after intensive training sessions.

For these reasons, VADA, the independent organization dedicated to anti-doping control in combat sports, has included testosterone on its list of prohibited substances, aligning itself with the WADA World Anti-Doping Code.

Unlike other sports, in professional boxing, the use of performance-enhancing drugs not only enhances performance but can also amplify the physical harm to another human being, raising much deeper ethical dilemmas.

Professional boxing continues to wage a parallel battle outside the ring: the fight to maintain sporting integrity and athlete safety. Testosterone, although naturally occurring, becomes a threat when used as a doping tool.

In a sport where a single punch can change lives, ensuring fair and safe conditions is not only a matter of regulations, but also of ethics. And here, VADA plays a key role that the boxing world cannot afford to ignore.

If you want to see the list of prohibited substances issued by VADA, you can consult the following link: https://wbcboxing.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/VADA-Prohibited-List-2025.pdf