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Wednesday, Jun 03, 2015

UFC Outlines New Suspensions as Part of USADA Led Drug Testing Program

By FCF Staff

As expected, the Ultimate Fighting Championship confirmed today that the United States Anti-Doping Agency will oversee its new drug testing program, and it also announced new suspension policies along with it.

Moving forward, the USADA will be the independent monitoring organization, which will conduct and manage the UFC’s random drug testing program. The confirmation was made during a press conference today in Las Vegas.

Fighters who test positive for performance enhancing drugs like anabolic steroids, blood dopers and growth hormones, will be suspended for two years on their first offense. If “aggravating circumstances” are deemed to exist, a fighter could be suspended for four years. This could be deemed the case if a fighter has failed tests prior to the UFC’s new policy, if multiple substances are detected, or if a conspiracy involving others is discovered (among other factors).

Repeat offenders will have their first sanction doubled, and third time offenders will have their second sanctions doubled.

Tests for the PEDs listed above will be conducted in and out of competition.

Athletes who test positive for specified substances, like marijuana, stimulants, cocaine etc, will be suspended for one year on their first offense (and up to two years if aggravating circumstances exist). Second time offenders will have their sanctions doubled, as will third time offenders.

Tests for these types of drugs will only be conducted in competition.

The suspensions are in keeping with the Nevada State Athletic Commission’s recent decision to implement much harsher suspensions and fines.

The UFC’s new program is expected to get under way on July 1st.

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posted by FCF Staff @ 4:31 pm
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