USADA confirms Conor McGregor's imminent return to the testing pool after Irishman’s latest comments
United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has officially announced that Conor McGregor will soon re-enter the testing pool for anti-doping protocols.
Throughout the course of Conor McGregor's complex situation, USADA has consistently provided public statements to ensure transparency. 'The Notorious' has previously made claims that were later refuted by the drug testing agency.
However, in his latest update to the media, McGregor's statements align with USADA's confirmation.
In response to McGregor's announcement, USADA released a statement affirming his intentions:
"We have recently been in direct contact with Conor McGregor, and as he confirmed today in the media, we expect to receive his paperwork regarding his retirement status and his decision to re-enter the USADA testing pool. As per the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, when athletes come out of retirement, they are subject to testing for a minimum period of six months.
"During this time, McGregor must provide at least two negative samples before he is granted permission to compete. The purpose of this rule is to ensure that all athletes who are no longer under the testing pool undergo a comprehensive testing regimen over a reasonable duration to maintain a level playing field for everyone."
Check out USADA's statement below:
Statement via USADA regarding Conor McGregor's comments earlier today: https://t.co/MBokE7dEQ5
What did Dana White say about Conor McGregor's UFC return?
In a post-fight media briefing following the recent UFC Fight Night event, UFC President Dana White provided confirmation and details about Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return to the Octagon.
During the press conference, White acknowledged the ongoing procedures McGregor needs to complete with USADA before his return can be fully confirmed. While unable to provide an exact timeline for the completion of paperwork and testing requirements, White expressed confidence that the necessary steps were being taken.
"There is a fight. Well, he has to get into the USADA pool first. He's filling out the paperwork. I don't know how soon that will be done or what's going on with that. That's his business that he's handling with USADA. But it's all in motion."
While the exact timeframe for McGregor's completion of USADA requirements remains uncertain, the process sets the stage for a potential matchup between McGregor and Michael Chandler. As coaches for The Ultimate Fighter Season 31, their highly-anticipated clash is expected to take place in November or December of this year.