USADA to run new drug-testing and anti-doping program for PFL
Shockwaves were sent through the mixed martial arts community when 10 professional MMA fighters signed under the Professional Fighters League (PFL) banner failed drugs tests earlier this year. In recent weeks, 2022 light heavyweight champion Rob Wilkinson, 2021 heavyweight champ Bruno Cappelozza, former UFC title challenger Thiago Santos, and former UFC fighter Krzystof Jotko, were among 10 fighters that tested positively.
As a result of the embarrassment and infractions, the PFL has partnered with the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) to run its new drug-testing and anti-doping program, according to an email from PFL president of fighter operations Ray Sefo to fighters and teams.
The new drug-testing program will feature “year-round in- and out-of-competition testing” in a setup “very similar” to the UFC’s partnership with USADA, only “with minor distinctions to account for the PFL’s sport season format.”
The memo states:
PFL Fighters,
We are proud to announce that today we are formally launching the PFL Anti-Doping Program in partnership with the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).
USADA conducts year-round, independent anti-doping programs for all Olympic, Paralympic, and UFC athletes, and will now do so for PFL athletes as well.
This program is part of the PFL’s commitment as a fighter first organization to supporting a safe, level playing field and advancing the highest levels of competition and the integrity of the sport.
The program will begin immediately with initial educational sessions being scheduled with USADA this week for participants in the upcoming Playoffs. Educational sessions to explain the program will be scheduled with other fighters thereafter.
