“No exception given by UFC for McGregor!” – Shortly after Conor McGregor’s re-entry to testing pool, USADA and UFC cut ties with CEO putting out scathing statement

Amidst Conor McGregor’s steroid rumors post-injury, USADA and UFC sever ties. USADA had no leniency for McGregor's testing time frame.

“No exception given by UFC for McGregor!” – Shortly after Conor McGregor’s re-entry to testing pool, USADA and UFC cut ties with CEO putting out scathing statement

Dana White and Conor McGregor (Courtesy-Rolling Stone)

Conor McGregor recently announced his entry into the USADA testing pool. However, what followed after the news was the UFC cutting ties with the USADA after the culmination of 2023. There are many speculations regarding the split of the two organizations.

Many theories suggest the split of the organization. One such is the theory that the USADA was not willing to compromise for Conor McGregor’s return to the Octagon. The official statement of the CEO of USADA, Travis T. Tygart read, “We can confirm that Conor McGregor has re-entered the USADA testing pool as of Sunday, October 8, 2023. We have been clear and firm with the UFC that there should be no exception given by the UFC for McGregor to fight until he has returned two negative tests and been in the pool for at least six months. The rules also allow USADA to keep someone in the testing pool longer before competing based on their declarations upon entry in the pool and testing results.” The statement insinuated their intent not to compromise their values.

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Conor McGregor has been out of action since he broke his leg at UFC 264 in a bout against Dustin Poirier. The Irishman pulled himself out of the testing pool after the injury. His recovery and eventual muscle gain were attributed to an alleged Steroid use. However, no official confirmation from either the UFC or USADA was made regarding it.

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McGregor’s return to the testing pool aligns with his return to the Octagon for UFC 300. His presumed opponent is Michael Chandler, who coached against him at TUF 31. Both fighters are coming off losses. Chandler lost to Poirier in his most recent bout at UFC 281. With USADA not being involved post-31st December of 2023, McGregor’s return to the octagon would be imminent.

Related: “They called…” – Dustin Poirier reveals stunning detail about UFC 294 drama for Islam Makhachev fight

When USADA and the UFC joined forces to erase doping from MMA

In 2015, the UFC and the USADA collaborated on a groundbreaking anti-doping program. This initiative reflected their shared commitment to cleaning up the sport. Managed by USADA, the program conducted unannounced testing both outside and during competitions.

Jeff Novitzky of USADA with Conor McGregor
Jeff Novitzky of USADA with Conor McGregor (Image via: X/Jeff Novitzky)

Their unpredictable testing approach ensured athletes maintained compliance year-round. Athletes violating anti-doping rules faced penalties. Penalties range from short-term suspensions to lifetime bans. It depended upon the violation’s severity. The program recognized genuine medical needs by offering Therapeutic Use Exemptions. This ensures athletes can get the necessary medications without facing any punishments. Moreover, USADA guaranteed public disclosure of all doping violations. Thus, the program fostered trust. They also provide educational resources for athletes about prohibited substances and TUE procedures.

The collaboration has led to numerous suspensions. Notably, T.J. Dillashaw, Jon Jones, and Anderson Silva were suspended by USADA. However, everything was not smooth sailing as Mark Hunt accused them of fraud. However, their stance of not providing any leniency for Conor McGregor was just. Nevertheless, it might have been their downfall as the UFC did not want to re-sign with them after the end of the contract.

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