A massively popular performance enhancing method once purveyed across the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). However, the doping practice was suddenly stopped just a few years ago.
Testosterone-replacement therapy, better known as TRT, first made headlines within the mixed martial arts world after Chael Sonnen faced off against Anderson Silva at UFC 117. Following the fight, the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) flagged Sonnen for reportedly high levels of testosterone.
Sonnen admitted to using synthetic testosterone, but claimed that it was not a case of willful cheating. Rather, Sonnen revealed that the testosterone was being taken under orders of his medical doctor. Sonnen claimed that the treatment was subscribed to treat his hypogonadism.
The plea earned Sonnen a reduced suspension in the hearing for his drug test failure. The NSAC would later grant Sonnen a therapeutic-use exemption (TUE). Since then, a bevy of fighters would go on to use TRT under the exemption.
From UFC Hall of Famer Forrest Griffin to Dan Henderson, a reported 15 MMA competitors were using TUEs. The most famous of which, MMA legend Vitor Belfort has had a controversial career with the practice.
When the practice of using TRT under TUEs was seemingly hitting its pinnacle, the treatment was suddenly banned. On Feb. 27, 2014, the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) voted to ban the use of testosterone-replacement therapy. NSAC then urged other commissions to follow suit.
UFC officials stated their support of the banning of TRT later that same day. A statement read that the UFC intended to “honor this ruling in international markets where, due to a lack of governing bodies, the UFC oversees regulatory efforts for our live events.”
Just like that, what had become a prevalent practice was eradicated from the sport.
