In an unusual case that highlights the complexities of PED testing procedures, PFL athlete Brendon Wilson received a three-month suspension after testing positive for metenolone, with the athlete claiming the contamination occurred from sharing a vape pen.
The USADA announced the sanction on Thursday, though Wilson’s suspension period had already concluded in July 2024. The 27-year-old tested positive during an out-of-competition sample collected on April 1, 2024.
“Wilson tested positive for metenolone and its metabolite 3α-hydroxy-1-methylene-5α-androstan-17-one as the result of an out-of-competition sample collected on April 1, 2024,” USADA officials stated in their press release. “Metenolone is a Non-Specified Substance in the class of Anabolic Agents and is prohibited at all times under the PFL Policy (ADP) and PFL Prohibited List.”
During the investigation, Wilson cooperated fully and provided an explanation that caught the attention of PED testing authorities. He identified that he had shared a vape pen with a friend who had recently used metenolone orally. The friend was not under USADA jurisdiction.
USADA took several months to verify Wilson’s claims, conducting a detailed scientific study in collaboration with a WADA-accredited laboratory to determine if such contamination was possible. The investigation included analyzing oral fluid samples and reviewing previous studies on oral administration.
“As a result of the study, and a detailed review of past published oral administration studies and the relatively low urinary concentrations observed in Mr. Wilson’s sample, USADA determined that the scenario was plausible and granted Wilson a significant reduction to the otherwise applicable period of ineligibility,” according to USADA’s statement.
The case also fell under the jurisdiction of the Nevada State Athletic Commission, which has since resolved the matter in accordance with their regulations. Wilson’s three-month suspension, which began on April 1, 2024, has now been completed, clearing him to return to competition.
