Demetrius Andrade will fight for the vacant WBO middleweight title this weekend after former champion Billy Joe Saunders gave up the belt following a failed VADA test.

The fight date this weekend in Boston still goes ahead with a replacement opponent from Africa stepping in to take on Andrade but there is no denying that Saunders not boxing on the card this weekend is a huge blow all round.

Speaking to DAZN USA, Andrade said of Saunders’ failed VADA test result:

“It’s unfortunate in combat sports, It’s like, we’re already putting our lives on the line trying to hurt each other. Taking you know, plus stuff to make you stronger, bigger, faster to get into the ring and hurt somebody, that’s a disgrace man.”

He added:

I’m clean baby. All natural over here. God power over here. I’m blessed, I’m gifted, I’ve got the talent and skill, the heart and the work ethic. That’s what I put in every day. I don’t need anything to help me get there. If you win, you win.”

This weekend’s bout for the vacant WBO title will be shown live on DAZN in the US and on Sky Sports in the UK.