Usman Nurmagomedov has found himself in a tough situation despite a win at Bellator 300. Nurmagomedov, the current Bellator lightweight champion, took on Brent Primus at the event and outclassed his opponent to retain his lightweight title. However, the CSAC (California State Athletic Commission) has served him a suspension.

A test was administered on October 6 and indicated that Nurmagomedov’s system contained an undisclosed banned substance. As per some recent reports, the Dagestani fighter has been suspended for an extended period. However, Nurmagomedov, who is former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov’s cousin, has taken to social media to share his side of the story with the MMA community.

Usman Nurmagomedov reveals the reason behind his suspension

The 25-year-old admitted that the banned substance in his system came from a prescribed medication, but he failed to seek a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) before the drug test. Later, despite requesting a TUE, the commission denied it.

In a statement on Instagram, Nurmagomedov came out to reveal his version of what transpired. He stated, “The results of my test revealed a prohibited substance that entered my body through medications, prescribed to me by a doctor. A few months before my fight, I was undergoing treatment, but unfortunately I did not notify the athletic commission in advance.”

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“I would like to note that the California state athletic commission conducted its own full investigation, where I provided all the necessary documents, doctor notes and medical certificates, thanks to which the period of my disqualification was reduced to 6 months, instead of longer suspensions accepted in such cases.”

According to commission documents, Nurmagomedov presented evidence that the substance was prescribed for therapeutic use. His manager, Ali Abdelaziz, also confirmed that the substance was not an anabolic steroid.

The suspension may have significant implications for Bellator, as the promotion has been in dire straits recently.

Nurmagomedov’s suspension is a massive blow to the Bellator Grand Prix and its future

While the reason behind Nurmagomedov’s positive test is now known, the situation will still not be easy for his promotion, Bellator. Despite no intention of gaining an advantage, the unbeaten star faces a six-month suspension and a $50,000 fine.

The status of Nurmagomedov’s Bellator lightweight title remains uncertain, raising questions about a potential stripping or vacating the title. His victory at Bellator 300 against Primus has already been overturned due to the suspension.

This development deals a significant blow to Bellator’s ongoing Lightweight Grand Prix. Rumors about the promotion’s possible acquisition by the PFL have also led fans to question the tournament’s future and conclusion.

Bellator President Scott Coker mentioned in June the organization’s quest for a partner, with the PFL emerging as a potential candidate. If the acquisition happens, it would be the PFL’s latest assertive move, especially after securing funding and a minority stake from SRJ Sports Investments, injecting over US $100 million for global expansion and top fighter signings.

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The PFL has been on a strategic signing spree, adding former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou to its roster. It remains to be seen what impact Nurmagomedov’s suspension will have on the promotion and if it will indeed lead to a merger with the PFL in the future.

Do you think Bellator can survive the suspension of its lightweight champion just ahead of their flagship ‘Grand Prix’? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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