M. Borella was punished with a hook for 30 years. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @maramarvillarb
Mara Romero Borella lives a personal dilemma. She was accused, in 2012, of selling and distributing drugs in bars, nightclubs and gyms in Italy. After years of a long process, the flyweight division was suspended for 15 years (until 2029) by the Italian Olympic Committee. However, the fighter was reported in 2018 for two more violations and received a new hook from the Italian Anti-Doping Agency that doubled her sentence. With a record punishment, the athlete will be released to fight in 2044.
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In Borella's first misdemeanor, the Committee classified it under article 2.7 of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, which talks about trafficking in prohibited substances.
In her second transgression, the Italian was accused of violating the first penalty by competing and using the country's sports facilities.
On her Instagram Story, the fighter left a message: “Only I can judge myself. I know my past, I know the reason for my choices, I know what I have inside. I know how much I suffered, I know how strong and fragile I can be, me and no one else.”
M. Borella left a message on the Instagram story. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @maramarvillarb
She can still compete in the UFC
Despite the biggest hook ever applied to an athlete, Mara Borella's future is still undefined. As the UFC does not follow WADA rules, the hook applied by the Agency is not valid for Ultimate. Therefore, the franchise can keep her on its roster of athletes.
The Italian debuted in Ultimate with a victory over Brazilian Kalindra Faria at UFC 216 in July 2017. In her second fight, the Italian was defeated by Katlyn chookagian No. UFC Charlotte in January this year.
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