Cyborg is free to return to the Octagon. (Photo: Getty Images)
It is increasingly common for UFC athletes to be caught by USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency) with a prohibited substance in their bodies. As a consequence, they are judged and suspended for a period that varies from case to case. However, with Chris Cyborg it was different.
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The Brazilian was considered innocent after testing positive for a banned substance in her anti-doping test carried out in December 2016. As justification, the responsible body issued an official note to explain the reasons for the exception given to the fighter.
“Her medication use was not initially revealed. But more important than that is that, when contacted by USADA, it promptly identified the medication as the reason for the positive test result. She provided all requested medical information and demonstrated that she was using it for legitimate medical reasons without any improvement in her performance. These were the primary considerations when reviewing the application of TUE (use for therapeutic purposes)”, said Ryan Madden, spokesperson for the organization, in an official statement sent to the 'Bloody Elbow' website (USA).
According to USADA's anti-doping policy, athletes who do not provide information about the use of prohibited substances, even for medical treatments, will be punished. However, Cyborg's case was considered an exception. Therefore, the Brazilian is ready to return to the Octagon. The expectation is that her return will take place against the Dutch Germain de Randamie, who won the inaugural women's featherweight belt by beating Holly holm by unanimous decision at UFC 208, held on February 11th.
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