Inam Butt faces doping probe after positive test

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s celebrated wrestler Inam Butt has returned to the spotlight for an unexpected reason, with his doping test reportedly coming back positive following his appearance at the Asian Beach Games in China.

According to a report published on Monday, Butt underwent a doping test during the Asian Beach Games held in China in April. The case is now being reviewed by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), which will decide whether the wrestler should face a suspension after considering his explanation and supporting medical evidence.

The development has raised questions around the circumstances surrounding the positive result, particularly because Butt has reportedly maintained that he did not knowingly use any performance-enhancing substance.

Sources close to the decorated wrestler said Butt had taken medication before the Games while undergoing treatment for an eye-related condition. They maintained that the medicines were prescribed for medical reasons and had no connection with enhancing athletic performance.

According to the sources, Butt provided WADA with details of the medicines he had taken, along with medical scans and prescriptions from his doctors. They also claimed that WADA had previously granted him permission to use the medication for a period of one year.

The wrestler is currently in communication with anti-doping officials as the matter is examined. A final decision on any possible suspension will depend on WADA’s assessment of his explanation, medical documents and the circumstances surrounding the test.

The development comes as a setback for one of Pakistan’s most accomplished wrestlers. Butt has won major international titles for the country and built a reputation as one of Pakistan’s leading beach wrestlers.

For now, no final ban has been announced. The case remains under review, with Butt’s supporters hoping that the medical evidence will help clarify how the prohibited substance entered his system and determine whether the violation was intentional or the result of prescribed treatment.