The Nevada Athletic Commission, responsible for regulating combat sports in the state, has implemented new drug testing policies for MMA fighters. These policies aim to distinguish between atypical and adverse drug testing results. The thresholds for certain prohibited substances have been established, including GW1516, DHCMT long-term metabolite (M3), clomiphene, epitrenbolone, and selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMS).
Under the new policies, any positive test result below the proposed threshold for a substance will be considered atypical and will require further investigation. This investigation may involve reviewing the fighter’s test history, conducting interviews, and possibly additional testing. The results will remain atypical unless evidence emerges that undermines the presence of mitigation associated with the below-threshold amount. If mitigating circumstances are eliminated, the case will proceed through standard disciplinary proceedings, which may result in a temporary suspension.
The thresholds for each substance have been specified by the NAC. UFC Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell presented the rationale behind these thresholds, highlighting that contamination is more likely than intentional use at certain levels. At levels below one nanogram or 100 picograms, there are no performance-enhancing benefits, which is a crucial consideration for ensuring fairness and allowing athletes to compete without an advantage.
Campbell also shed light on the issue of lingering substances in drug testing, using Jon Jones’ situation as an example. Jones has consistently tested positive for the M3 metabolite, which has raised questions about the duration of its presence in his system. The UFC seeks transparency and certainty when dealing with athletes who test positive for residual amounts of contaminated supplements, as it doesn’t want to jeopardize significant events held in the state.
During the discussion with commission members, the distinction between atypical and adverse drug testing results was clarified. It was confirmed that fighters with atypical urine samples will not have the results of their bouts overturned unless their abnormality moves into the adverse category.
This new policy aligns the NAC’s standards with those of the UFC and its anti-doping partner USADA. However, it remains to be seen if other states will adopt similar thresholds.
In related news, the UFC will end its partnership with USADA’s anti-doping program at the end of 2023. The promotion will launch its new program in collaboration with Drug Free Sport, led by former FBI agent George Piro.
These developments reflect the ongoing efforts to evolve drug testing protocols in combat sports, particularly in addressing the presence of lingering substances. The focus is on ensuring fairness for athletes while maintaining the integrity of the sport.
