Currently, we are hearing the latest news from the mixed martial arts world. It is breaking news that USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) has announced its decision to discontinue overseeing the UFC’s anti-doping program.

This news was disclosed on October 4, 2023, along with a statement from USADA CEO Travis Tygart. After the USADA’s confirmation that Conor McGregor had officially returned to the drug-testing program after an extended break, Tygart announced the USADA’s part way with UFC. He stated:

“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.

Unfortunately, we do not currently know whether the UFC will ultimately honor the six-month or longer requirement because, as of January 1, 2024, USADA will no longer be involved with the UFC Anti-Doping Program.”

USADA CEO shared his disappointment on social media:

“We are disappointed for UFC athletes, who are independent contractors who rely on our independent, gold-standard global program to protect their rights to a clean, safe, and fair Octagon.

The UFC’s move imperils the immense progress made within the sport under USADA’s leadership.”