Conor McGregor blamed for PED ‘loophole’ in MMA as retired legend teases comeback

Johnny Eblen blames Conor McGregor for influencing fighters like Donald Cerrone to make comebacks after using PEDs.

Conor McGregor blamed for PED ‘loophole’ in MMA as retired legend teases comeback

Conor McGregor is getting the blame for influencing Donald Cerrone (Image via Imago/X)

Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) are illegal in combat sports and can lead to severe bans from the sport. Recently, UFC legend Donald Cerrone has faced intense scrutiny for using PEDs while teasing about his comeback. Adding to the controversy, Bellator champion Johnny Eblen has accused Conor McGregor of being responsible for a loophole in the sport.

Johnny Eblen believes that fighters should not use performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) and then return to competition. He argues that this practice highlights flaws in the regulations. Eblen’s focus on Conor McGregor might seem puzzling. However, he claims that the Irishman has influenced several other fighters, including Donald Cerrone, to take a similar approach.

I don’t think it’s a good idea to retire, take a bunch of steroids, and then come back and fight again. It’s not a good look man, I think Conor (McGregor) paved the way and he is influencing a lot of people to do it.

Johnny Eblen via Battle of the Giants post-fight interview
YouTube video

While the drug is eliminated from the system, its effects can linger much longer. According to Eblen, this presents a significant advantage for trained professional fighters whose best days are behind them. This discussion surfaced after Donald Cerrone’s recent announcement to which even the UFC CEO Dana White reacted.

FS Video

Moreover, it prompted several individuals to express similar concerns that Cerrone might be taking advantage of a loophole. One theory regarding Eblen’s accusation of Conor McGregor as the leading figure in PED usage during UFC comebacks relates to the Irishman’s activities outside the cage.

McGregor has been away from the octagon for three years, yet he appeared suspiciously fit during this time. During this, the Irishman even made regular public appearances where he was consuming various intoxicating substances. Interestingly, McGregor also seemingly took a dig at Eblen recently.

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Conor McGregor sarcastically mocks Johnny Eblen while watching him fight

The Irishman is undoubtedly one of the most popular superstars in the MMA community. This is because of his astounding feats in the sport. Not only that, McGregor is also known for his trash-talking abilities. As such, he often berates several other fighters for various reasons. Recently, the Irishman trash talk befalled upon one of the Bellator champions, Johnny Eblen.

Johnny Eblen’s recent fight
Johnny Eblen’s recent fight (Image via Instagram)

The Bellator middleweight fighter faced off against Fabian Edwards at the ‘Battle of the Giants’ fight card a few hours ago. Although Eblen successfully defended his title against Edwards, McGregor was not impressed with his performance. The Irishman even made sarcastic comments while watching the fight from home.

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Conor McGregor is aiming to make a comeback to the octagon in 2025. This decision follows several unsuccessful attempts in 2024 to return to fighting. It will be interesting to see whether the Irishman can finally make his comeback or if there will be further delays.