Yings BBC Article

In the article "UFC 244: Nate Diaz cleared over dopingtest" we are informed that despite testing positive for small quantities of LGD-4033 he has been cleared and the main event fight of UFC 244 will go ahead as planned. LGD-4033 is a substance which can be used to increase testosterone however the UFC said that the sample was "roughly 10,000 times lower than one LGD-4033 therapeutic dose. USADA proceeded to confirm that no sanction or provisional suspension will be handed down.

The events of Nate Diaz’s blood test results and everything that followed is an interesting thing to look at in the broad terms of illicit substances in sports. One aspect to look at is that USADA (who ran the tests) were able to detect trace amounts of the illicit substance LGD-4033 and in turn clear the fighter due to tainted supplements. This shows us that the drug detection in sports is getting better and results are achieved faster. This is important for providing a fair playing field in all sports.

Another interesting way to look at this is to consider the amount of pressure that is placed upon athletes not only in MMA but in all sports. That they would be willing to risk everything to gain an edge in competition speaks very much about what they go through, the pressure and the mindset that they might have in their chosen sport. As technology grows it is important we continue to grow the drug testing technology to meet the latest in performance enhancing substances and make all sports a fair competition.

One of the important things to take from this article is that it is always important for professional athletes to be careful with supplements and what they put into their body. Mistakes can be made, particularly as Nate Diaz learnt when he was flagged for illicit substances despite an all natural, vegan diet and supplements.

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