After Conor McGregor’s unfortunate leg injury, it became evident that he had temporarily exited the USADA testing pool. As the date of his anticipated return drew nearer, McGregor asserted that being in the testing pool for six months didn’t matter. He said that he would compete whenever he felt like it was time for his comeback.
Contrary to McGregor’s claim, the UFC never officially endorsed this standpoint. This week, USADA made a decisive announcement about severing ties with the UFC. The press statement also specifically targeted Conor McGregor.
USADA stated: “We can confirm that Conor McGregor has re-entered the USADA testing pool as of Sunday, October 8, 2023. We have been clear and firm with the UFC that there should be no exception given by the UFC for McGregor to fight until he has returned two negative tests and been in the pool for at least six months.”
“The rules also allow USADA to keep someone in the testing pool longer before competing based on their declarations upon entry in the pool and testing results.”
“Unfortunately, we do not currently know whether the UFC will ultimately honor the six-month or longer requirement because, as of January 1, 2024, USADA will no longer be involved with the UFC Anti-Doping Program,” the statement continued about Conor McGregor.”
In response to USADA’s statement, UFC executives Hunter Campbell and Jeff Novitzky offered their perspectives to the media. They cast a critical eye on the agency’s actions and statements concerning Conor McGregor.
Campbell expressed his strong disapproval, stating that “what USADA have done to Conor McGregor is disgusting and that they may be legally liable for it.”
He further clarified that testing would persist until the year’s end, with plans to introduce a revamped program in the upcoming year. Campbell underscored that USADA’s treatment of McGregor deviated significantly from their standard approach towards other athletes.
Hunter Campbell went on to assert that USADA was aware of McGregor’s unavailability for a December bout, yet proceeded to target him in their press release.
He emphasized, “Conor says a lot of crazy s—. But USADA knew in August there wouldn’t be an exception made for McGregor with the program… McGregor allowed USADA to get media coverage they would not normally get. They used an athlete as a vehicle to advance a false narrative. I think it’s incredibly unethical.”
At present, Conor McGregor has not issued any response to any remarks.