2024 has been a year of some new things for the UFC. As such, one of the big changes that they had was the transition from USADA to its own anti-doping program. However, owing to recent news regarding Jose Aldo, many have already started questioning their credibility.
Previously, it would be announced that the UFC would no longer be working with USADA, their drug-testing partners for nearly a decade. As a result of a feud involving Conor McGregor, UFC President Dana White, and the drug testing partners, the promotion chose to bring out their own- the UFC – Anti-Doping Policy.
USADA has just announced that their business relationship with the UFC will come to an end on 12/31.
Furthermore, USADA CEO Travis Tygart issued a pretty scathing press release on the end of an often-complicated almost decade-long relationship. pic.twitter.com/ZaPwtCg6g5
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) October 11, 2023
Initially, there were questions about the credibility of the anti-doping program, with it being a completely new entity. At the same time, ties to Conor McGregor didn’t paint a convincing picture either. However, there were no real grounds to crucify them for underperforming, until now.
Is Jose Aldo getting a drug-testing pass for UFC 301?
Recently, it was revealed that the ‘King of Rio’ Jose Aldo would be returning to the UFC on May 4. Having retired less than two years ago, the former featherweight king was set to return, most likely for a final time. Considering that there were already criticisms of the Alexandre Pantoja vs Steve Erceg headliner, the fight was a welcome addition.
With that, the question of his mandatory six-month testing was also raised, as many were certain that the Brazilian was not actively in the testing pool. Recently, journalist Trent Reinsmith also questioned the same and even came out with a piece on the matter. As such, it dwells on the likelihood that the UFC is in fact making an exception for Jose Aldo to get cleared to fight.
UFC anti-doping program giving Jose Aldo a pass on the six-month drug testing rule? MMA media shrugs shoulders and doesn’t question or mention it.
I don’t get it.
Also, asked UFC anti-doping about this, of course, silence. Where’s the transparency we were promised? https://t.co/l9Xji236wq
— Trent Reinsmith (@TrentReinsmith) March 24, 2024
Considering that the new testing program had only been in effect for a mere three months, it would be a bad look for them to already falter. At the same time, it must be noted that Aldo had retired from the UFC but only to take up Bare-Knuckle boxing, meaning that he could have been under testing at that time.
Jose Aldo takes on Jonathan Martinez at UFC 301
When news first broke of Jose Aldo making his UFC return, thoughts of many dream matchups came to the peoples’ minds. With names like Henry Cejudo, and Dominick Cruz imagined, it was a kick in the teeth to find Jonathan Martinez to be the chosen one. Without a doubt, the fighter is talented, rather too talented for Jose’s farewell.
However, with no other alternative available, ‘Dragon’ will be the one to face Aldo. Now 37, the once king of the featherweights is far from his days of power. Thus, a legacy fight should have been prioritized by the UFC. Regardless, many are holding out hope and praying that Jose is still in fighting shape.
JOSE ALDO IS RETURNING TO THE UFC
Jose Aldo Vs Jonathan Martinez
UFC 301 | May 4 | Rio De Janeiro 🇧🇷via @AgFight pic.twitter.com/1zFQDnfESc
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) March 16, 2024
Although his bare-knuckle stint was nothing to write home about, many can expect that it has at least keep in a position to actually challenge Martinez. All things considered, it is clear that the fight will be one where the listeners of the hearts and the listener of the mind will thrive. Either way, drug-tested or not it will be a joy to watch Jose Aldo take to the Octagon again.
