LAHORE: Pakistan wrestler Inam Butt has completed a two-month suspension over a doping violation and is now eligible to resume wrestling activities, according to reports citing sources familiar with the case.
The suspension followed a positive doping test conducted during the Asian Beach Games in China in April. Butt had told anti-doping authorities that the prohibited substance was contained in medication he had taken to treat an eye condition and was not used for performance enhancement.
Suspension Period Completed
According to documents cited in the reports, Butt’s suspension ran from July 19 to September 18. With the period completed, he is now eligible to participate in wrestling-related activities.
The International Testing Agency (ITA) and World Wrestling reportedly informed Butt of the disciplinary decision. Earlier reports said the ITA had accepted his explanation regarding the medical use of the medication, while the case also involved a failure to obtain the required therapeutic-use exemption in time.
Asian Beach Games Medal to Be Withdrawn
As part of the disciplinary outcome, Butt is expected to lose the silver medal he won at the Asian Beach Games in April.
Reports also indicate that the sanction will not prevent him from participating in the Asian Games. Earlier reporting had suggested that a two-month suspension would allow him to become eligible for the continental event once the ban was completed.
Wrestling and Administrative Roles
Butt had voluntarily stepped down from his positions as secretary of the Pakistan Wrestling Federation and chairman of the Pakistan Olympic Association’s Athletes Commission after the doping case emerged.
With the suspension completed, reports indicate that he can resume his wrestling-related responsibilities.
The case began after Butt returned a positive finding at the Asian Beach Games. He had provided anti-doping authorities with details of the medication, medical records and his doctor’s prescription, maintaining that the treatment was for an eye condition rather than performance enhancement.