UFC Middleweight Flagged For Potential USADA Violation
The UFC have announced another potential violation of their Anti-Doping Policy, and it’s middleweight fighter Ricardo Abreu who could be facing punishment this time.
UFC announced the finding Sunday after being told of the violation by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). This would be Abreu’s first violation, which carry a standard of a two-year suspension. Abreu is able to dispute the finding and present any evidence to the contrary in which he can provide.
The 32-year old Abreu landed a spot on The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 3 after going undefeated. Under the tutelage of Wanderlei Silva, Abreu would make it to the semifinal round of the show before being bested by Marcio Alexandre Jr.
Abreu debuted for the UFC in May 2014 at The Ultimate Fighter Brazil 3 Finale by defeating Wagner Silva via submission. Abreu lost his most recent fight, a split-decision to Jake Collier at UFC Fight Night 88 in June 2015.
The UFC released the following statement on the matter:
“The UFC organization was notified that the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has informed Ricardo Abreu of a potential Anti-Doping Policy violation stemming from an out-of-competition sample collection.
USADA, the independent administrator of the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, will handle the results management and appropriate adjudication of this case. It is important to note that, under the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, there is a full and fair review process that is afforded to all athletes before any sanctions are imposed. Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time as the process moves forward.”
