Less than 24 hours after it was revealed by the British Columbia Athletic Commission that Ali Bagautinov had tested positive for a banned substance prior to his bout against Demetrious Johnson at UFC 174, Ultimate Fighting Championship has revealed its stance.
In a statement released on Friday, Zuffa has decided to suspend Bagautinov from competing for a full year and will require “Puncher” to take another drug test at the conclusion of his suspension.
Here is the full statement:
“UFC 174 competitor Ali Bagautinov has been suspended by the British Columbia Athletic Commission for testing positive for erythropoietin (EPO). He was also informed that his positive test violated the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy and Promotional Agreement with Zuffa, LLC. The UFC has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents by our athletes. Bagautinov will serve a one-year suspension and must pass a drug test at the conclusion of his suspension before receiving clearance to compete in the UFC again.”
Bagautinov was ultimately defeated by Johnson at UFC 174 in Vancouver in a one-sided unanimous decision.
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