Riki Fukuda and Alex Caceres are caught in UFC Japan anti-doping

R. Fukuda (left) and A. Caceres (right) were punished following the anti-doping results. Photo: MMA Press Production (Disclosure/UFC)

Japanese Riki Fukuda and North American Alex Caceres, who participated in UFC Japan 2013, also known as UFC on FUEL TV 8, on March 3, were caught in the anti-doping test carried out after the event. Along with the release of the test results, the athletes' punishments were also announced. Fukuda was fired by Ultimate and Caceres suspended.

The illegal substances found in opponents are of different origins. While Fukuda had prohibited stimulants in his system, and justified it by claiming it was a medical treatment, Caceres was caught using marijuana and claimed to have full responsibility for the results of his test.

After an irregular spell in the UFC, with three defeats and two wins in five fights, the anti-doping result was the trigger for Riki Fukuda's dismissal – at a time when the organization is downsizing its staff. On the other hand, Alex Caceres, who is on a good streak, was not released, but will have to go through drug rehabilitation before returning to Ultimate.