Horn camp wants random drug testing for Pacquiao rematch

MANILA, Philippines – The camp of Jeff Horn will push for the implementation of random drug testing in case the Australian’s planned rematch with Manny Pacquiao is a go.

In a report by Phil Lutton of the Sydney Morning Herald, Horn’s trainer Glenn Rushton said he wasn’t contented with the standard post-fight drug test held during the bout last month.

Pacquiao and Horn subjected themselves to the usual urine test after their July 2 bout in Brisbane, Australia, and both tested negative for performance-enhancing drugs.

Now, Rushton wants more stringent testing for the rematch, turning to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association, which conducts random, Olympic-style tests on competing athletes.

"I'm very happy with any drug testing. I signed Jeff up for the WBC-VADA clean boxing program, which means you can be tested at any time. As an Olympian, we're used to this sort of drug testing. We've had to do this many times. He's clean as a whistle,” said the Australian trainer.

Pacquiao was initially not receptive to the idea of getting tested any time in training camp leading to a major fight, citing his fear of needles. The issue has been a central factor in the failed initial negotiations with the camp of Floyd Mayweather Jr.

But the Filipino icon eventually gave in to the process, and his bout with Mayweather pushed through two years ago.

Rushton will be batting for the same arrangement in an effort to avoid controversy the next time Pacquiao and Horn take on each other.

"It is something I'd bring up because what I don't want is for them to go 'The only way I can win this fight is if we are trying to get an unfair advantage'," Rushton said. "I would certainly be very mindful of that. We want the big fights, but we want a level playing field.

Horn upset Pacquiao with a unanimous decision victory to come away with the WBO welterweight strap.

Pacquiao has a rematch clause and said he will exercise it.