The MMA world has been recently buzzing with reports that the USADA and UFC will no longer continue their partnership from 2024. This news comes after the USADA released a statement online, stating that the UFC informed them they would not extend their contract after December 31.

This news has stirred the MMA community because USADA mentioned Conor McGregor and his return to the testing pool as the reason for discontinuing the partnership. UFC EVP and Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell, SVP of Athlete Health & Performance Jeff Novitzky, and CEO Dana White have expressed their displeasure with the statement. Let’s delve into the entire situation and take a look at the future of athlete testing in the UFC.

USADA and UFC part ways amidst conflict due to Conor McGregor and his testing status

USADA joined forces with the UFC in 2015, taking responsibility for all tests administered to athletes under the UFC banner. On October 12th, USADA CEO Travis Tygart released an online statement. Providing more context on why the partnership abruptly ended.

He confirmed that Conor McGregor re-entered the USADA testing pool on October 8th. However, he also expressed uncertainty about whether the UFC would allow McGregor to undergo the full 6 months of testing. Or require him to return 2 negative tests before clearing him for an Octagon return.

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The statement included the following quote: “The relationship between USADA and UFC became untenable given the statements made by UFC leaders and others questioning USADA’s principled stance that McGregor not be allowed to fight without being in the testing pool for at least six months.”

In response, UFC officials issued a statement during a press conference. Hunter Campbell, UFC EVP, and Chief Business Officer stated, “What I can categorically tell you is that what USADA has put out in the last 48 hours could not be farther from the truth.”

The UFC also claimed that they would pursue legal options for the situation. During the news conference, Campbell mentioned that the UFC had served USADA with a legal letter. In the letter, the UFC accused the drug testing organization of defamation. And demanded a retraction of the statement.

Dana White reveals his thoughts on USADA and new testing partner

UFC CEO Dana White has also expressed his displeasure with USADA. During an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show on October 12th. He characterized the statement by USADA as “a dirty move” and said, “There was no announcement that was straight up ‘scumbagism’; what happened yesterday.”

Dana White mentioned that the UFC will continue to employ an independent company for drug testing, emphasizing its effectiveness. He also expressed that many are dissatisfied with USADA. And that they are actively exploring alternative options due to what he referred to as a questionable move by USADA.

“Disappointed for UFC Athletes”- Conor McGregor Wins USADA Battle as CEO Breaks Silence After 8-Year Partnership With Dana White and Co. To End in 2024

All of this has led to the UFC partnering with another independent organization for athlete testing. According to a statement provided by UFC officials, their new partner in this endeavor will be ‘Drug Free Sport International.‘ The partnership is set to commence on January 1st, 2024. Officially marking the end of the relationship between the USADA and UFC. This new organization is known for conducting athlete testing for the NFL.

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