The UFC has created its own drug-testing program, severing ties with the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) amidst a feud with Conor McGregor. Learn more about this development and the implications it holds for the future of drug testing in the UFC.
| Key Points |
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| The UFC is establishing its own drug-testing program, ending its partnership with USADA. |
| Drug Free Sport International will handle the collection process under the new program. |
| Former FBI special agent George Piro will oversee the new program. |
| UFC officials believe that USADA’s decision is a self-preservation tactic that will fail. |
| Conor McGregor is returning to the USADA testing pool, a requirement before competing again. |
| The UFC’s new program aims to strengthen and improve the existing drug-testing protocols. |
The UFC has decided to establish its own drug-testing program, parting ways with the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). This move comes after a dispute involving former champion Conor McGregor. The organization has also demanded a retraction and apology from USADA for a statement it made regarding the end of their deal. Starting in January, the collection process will be handled by Drug Free Sport International. The new program will be overseen by former FBI special agent George Piro. UFC senior vice president Jeff Novitzky expressed confidence in the program, stating that combining different entities and individuals can strengthen and improve it. USADA announced their separation from the UFC earlier this week, citing issues related to McGregor. However, UFC officials believe that USADA’s decision is a self-preservation tactic that will ultimately fail.
