Jarrell Miller: I Shouldn’t Be Banned For Life

Heavyweight contender Jarrell Miller claims he has never intentionally taken performance-enhancing drugs and therefore should not face a lifetime ban from boxing after his latest failed test. Miller was caught with GW1516 in his system ahead of a now-canceled bout against Jerry Forrest on July 9 in Las Vegas.

This is the second time ‘Big Baby’ has been removed from a fight due to failed drug tests. The 31-year-old was pulled from a fight against unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua after testing positive on three separate occasions during training camp.

Speaking to Jeremy C. Herriges of the Fight Network on Tuesday Miller reacted to his latest drug infraction, he said.

“I have never, ever willingly taken a steroid for performance-enhancing purposes. I take something for healing properties, for injuries? Yes, I have. But to win a fight and during a training camp? No, I have never done that.

“Nobody can be more outraged [of the allegations] than me. I’m the one that’s lost millions of dollars. I’m the one that’s had his career on the line. … But I have to think about it with a straight mind. I have to figure it out. Sit down with my team. Get everything in order and get everything done in the right way … It’s sad. I’m angry about it, but like I said, there is an explanation for it, and me and my legal team are working on it.”

Miller previously served a six-month WBA ban after testing positive ahead of his fight against Joshua. Many believe he will be subject to a much harsher punishment this time around but ‘Big Baby’ doubts he will face a lifetime ban from boxing, he said.

“I should not be banned [for life],” said Miller. “I’m prepared to accept my suspension and be willing to do my monthly testing [during] my suspension, but to be banned for life? You’re out of your mind … I’ve done my research and homework to do my best to not make this happen, and all I can do is apologize to Bob Arum, apologize to Jay [Prince] But at the same time, I did do my homework. I did put my best foot forward. I did let VADA know of certain circumstances. I did my part as a human being and as a fighter.” (Transcribed by Boxing Scene)

Do you think Jarrell Miller should face a lifetime ban from boxing?