Tony Yoka did not mince words when discussing the sudden cancellation of his scheduled bout against Lawrence Okolie, declaring his British opponent had “foiré la soirée” following a positive doping test that scrapped their April 25 showdown at Paris’ Adidas Arena.
The French Olympic gold medalist revealed his profound disappointment in interviews with French media outlets L’Équipe and RMC Sport after learning of Okolie’s adverse finding just days before the fight. Yoka had invested significant time and financial resources into preparations for what he described as “the most important fight of my career.”
“I was sure to 100% I would beat Okolie,” Yoka told L’Équipe, expressing frustration over the wasted effort. “I had massive ambitions for the WBC number one contender spot.” The cancellation not only derailed his personal aspirations but also scrapped the entire event card, affecting fellow French boxer Bakary Samaké, who was set to compete in a WBC super-welters world semifinal on the same bill.
Yoka acknowledged Samaké’s situation added to his frustration, noting he was “very happy that boxers who don’t usually get the spotlight like Bakary Samaké and myself could be part of a major event.” He lamented losing the opportunity to share such a platform with under-the-radar fighters.
Despite his anger toward Okolie—whom he blamed for ruining the Paris event—Yoka confirmed his promoter Frank Warren has secured him a return to the ring in May. The fighter revealed he will compete in one of two “major heavyweight nights” Warren is staging in England: either Manchester on May 9 or Doncaster on May 16.
The Manchester event features a WBO world title bout between Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois, whereas the Doncaster card includes a matchup between David Allen—whom Yoka defeated in 2018—and Croatian contender Filip Hrgovic. Yoka stated he has “done a very fine preparation” and intends to capitalize on his readiness by fighting soon.
Queensberry Promotions announced Okolie’s withdrawal on April 21 after the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) notified them of the British heavyweight’s adverse test result conducted ahead of the scheduled Paris encounter. The promoters confirmed they explored replacement options but ultimately could not salvage the event.
Yoka, a 33-year-old Parisian, remains focused on rebuilding his momentum toward a world title opportunity. While expressing disappointment over the lost chance to face Okolie, he emphasized his eagerness to return to competition and support fellow fighters affected by the cancellation.
The incident underscores the ongoing challenges boxing faces with pre-fight drug testing protocols and their impact on major event scheduling. For Yoka, the immediate priority is securing a new opponent and date to continue his pursuit of elite heavyweight status.
Stay tuned to Archysport for updates on Tony Yoka’s return to the ring and his path toward a WBC title shot.
