The UFC 303 and Conor McGregor return saga has finally come to an end. However, every cloud has a silver lining. Hopeful for a June return, Conor McGregor has been the center of the storm. He almost returned for a welterweight headliner at UFC 303. He even boasted of being the most tested under the new UFC Anti-Doping Policy (UFC ADP) standards in the lead-up. Turns out, those claims are true.
‘The Notorious’ was to meet expectant rival Michael Chandler on June 29. Then came the blow of the Irish superstar canceling media obligations and ruling out his return due to sudden injury. However, McGregor seemingly yet remains the most tested athlete under the new regime. Jed I. Goodman, former executive producer of The 7 Of Clubs/Combat Sports, posted the snippets on X.
This might just notion positivity and end rumors that the Irishman canceled his return for rehabilitation. Although the most tested under USADA listings, some had nudged on not testing McGregor, allowing for an expedited return. With UFC’s split from USADA, CEO Travis Tygart blamed the split on the McGregor situation and the alleged rumor of UFC wanting leniency for the Irishman.
The new #UFC Anti-Doping Test History database has been updated.
Fighters with the most test sessions in 2024.
(listing fighters with at least 4 test sessions this year):675 fighters tested.
2071 total samples collected to date.Conor McGregor: 10
Jose Aldo: 7
Kayla…— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) June 18, 2024
Afterward, Drug-Free Sport International (DFSI) stepped in as the new overseer. McGregor is among 61 athletes on the UFC’s new anti-doping database and remains one of only two registered for unannounced sampling. Along with no-notice pools, McGregor has since had ten tests just in 2024, the highest. He might not boast the 50-test “Drug-Free” jacket, but these notions he is priming for return.
Understanding The UFC Prohibited List of Testing Pools
Conor McGregor’s ‘notorious’ substance-fueled demeanor often begs the question of sound state. However, the 35-year-old from Ireland often goes candid about being the only one who can act unhinged and yet be the pinnacle of the sporting industry. More to it, UFC’s new anti-doping database reveals McGregor is by far the most tested athlete on the promotion’s 2024 list.
Conor McGregor is clean in the DFSI testing pool (Source: ufcantidoping.com/irishmirror.ie)He was tested five times as of March; as of June, the number has doubled. No one expected McGregor to be the most tested athlete. Given his yet-anticipated return, here’s a brief look into UFC’s [own] Prohibited List.
UFC taps DFSI as new anti-doping program partner for 2024 and beyond.
As of Jan 1, 2024 USADA is no longer testing UFC athletes. USADA CEO Travis Tygart said in his announcement that differences over fighter Conor McGregor “caused friction between the UFC and USADA,” thus… pic.twitter.com/7GQtNKLdO2
— MMA UNCENSORED (@MMAUNCENSORED1) January 7, 2024
Under the arbitration of McLaren Global Sport Solutions Inc. (“MGSS”), the UFC Prohibited List incorporates the most current WADA Technical Documents. It sets the proper bar for decisive concentration levels, per Adverse Analytical Findings (AAFs). In the case of McGregor or others, the list includes:
— Clomiphene/clomifene: 0.10 ng/mL2
— Dehydrochloromethyltestosterone (DHCMT) long-term metabolite (M3): 0.10 ng/mL
— Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs): 0.10 ng/mL3
— GW-1516 (GW-501516): 0.10 ng/mL4
— Epitrenbolone (Trenbolone metabolite): 0.20 ng/mL
Stimulants like cocaine, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, “ecstasy”), dimethylamphetamine (DMA), benzylpiperazine (BZP), etc. are a strict no-no. Intravenous (IV) infusions and/or injections and edible contaminants also pose a risk for high-functioning or rebounding athletes. Khalil Rountree tested positive for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), found in his custom supplement.
Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory (SMRTL) reported that there was no way of knowing beforehand about the contamination of the custom product. Hence, his clinical suspension was on the down low. These remain some prime variables that WADA-Accredited Laboratories can use to find ammunition against athletes.
