“Open to the idea of athletes taking substances,” After Joe Rogan hinted at Conor McGregor’s steroid use, UFC comes out clearing allowance of PEDs for severe injury recoveries

Hunter Campbell and Jeff Novitzky introduce UFC's new drug policy, hinting at possible substance use for injury recovery based on scientific research.

“Open to the idea of athletes taking substances,” After Joe Rogan hinted at Conor McGregor’s steroid use, UFC comes out clearing allowance of PEDs for severe injury recoveries

Hunter Campbell, Dana White's right hand man, defends Conor McGregor and Joe Rogan (Image via Imago, ESPN India)

Hunter Campbell and Jeff Novitzky unveiled the organization’s new drug testing policy. This follows recent rumors and public discussions related to Conor McGregor. Moreover, Joe Rogan on his podcast said that the UFC should drop the USADA contract. Campbell is the UFC’s Chief Business Officer and Novitzky is the Senior Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance

In a recent press conference, Campbell remarked, “The UFC is at least open to the idea of athletes taking substances to recover from devastating injuries, based on the science and long-term performance-enhancing benefits over the coming years.” The statement is a significant shift from the strict anti-doping stance the USADA held. The statement was made in regard to the alleged PED use by Conor McGregor post his leg break. Campbell’s statement opens the door for fighters to potentially use certain substances under specified conditions.

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Alongside this revelation, Campbell also talked about the fractured partnership with the USADA. The UFC has been working with USADA since 2015 to maintain a robust anti-doping program. The reasons for the rift stemmed from the UFC not resigning with the USADA. The USADA CEO has come forth and said that issues related to Conor McGregor and comments made by Joe Rogan as the primary reasons for this split.

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Conor McGregor has allegedly used steroids to recover from the injury. Rogan, on the other hand, questioned the USADA for not allowing fighters to use substances to heal injuries. Both Campbell and Novitsky agreed with Rogan’s viewpoint. Rogan is a public advocate for the use of Testosterone Replacement Therapy. He has been doing it since entered his 40s.

Related: “The Fat Lesbian” – Conor McGregor fires unprovoked shots at welterweight Gilbert Burns and attacks fighter’s physique

Hunter Campbell bashes the USADA for not being transparent and announces a partnership with Drug-Free Sport

In a recent press conference, Hunter Campbell accused the USADA of not being transparent with the UFC. However, he praised the UFC-USADA partnership for the removal of PEDs. The current partnership between the two entities will end on December 31, 2023.

Hunter Campbell, Dana White's right hand man, defends Conor McGregor and Joe Rogan
Hunter Campbell defends Conor McGregor and Joe Rogan (Image via Imago, X)

From 2024, January 1, Drug-Free Sport International will be an anti-doping partner of the UFC. DFSI currently works with leagues such as the NCAA, MLB, NFL, and NBA to name a few. The anti-doping program would be spearheaded by George Piro. Piro would have an independent charge. Campbell also clarified that Drug Free Sport being a for-profit organization is beneficial for the UFC. USADA is a not-for-profit organization. Campbell’s annoyance with USADA was the non-transparency when asked about the EPO-related testing.

Chael Sonnen and TJ Dillashaw were both suspended by USADA for EPO use. According to Jeff Novitzky and Campbell, Conor McGregor has done everything asked of him and has followed all USADA regulations. High-profile athletes suspended by USADA include the likes of Jon Jones and Anderson Silva.

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