Lamont Peterson allowed to keep IBF belt despite failing drugs test

American light-welterweight Lamont Peterson has been allowed to keep his International Boxing Federation title despite failing a drugs test.

The 28-year-old tested positive for a synthetic testosterone and was subsequently stripped of the WBA title he won against Amir Khan in December.

Peterson lost the chance to fight Khan in a rematch but has been allowed to keep his IBF belt after they conducted their own review of the case.

An IBF statement read: "After concluding the review of all the documentation provided by Peterson's camp and the Nevada State Athletic Commission, the physician determined that the testosterone levels noted in the VADA report are consistent with the therapeutic use of the hormone and not for the purpose of performance enhancement.

"Therefore, these levels would not have enhanced Lamont Peterson's training for or performance during the bout on December 10."

Peterson is now expected to defend the title against Khan victim Zab Judah later this year.