.png)
In a surprising turn of events, Bellator lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov has been handed a six-month suspension and fined $50,000 by the California State Athletic Commission following a failed drug test. The repercussions extend to his recent Bellator 300 win over Brent Primus, which has now been officially ruled a no-contest.
Ariel Helwani initially broke the news, with CSAC Executive Director Andy Foster confirming the suspension and fine. Foster did not disclose the specific substance that led to the positive test, citing it as a prescription medicine. Nurmagomedov has chosen to enroll in the Voluntary Anti-Doping Program in response to the situation.
Nurmagomedov's manager, Ali Abdelaziz, clarified the situation, stating,
“Usman was prescribed medication for an illness he had. It’s not an anabolic steroid, EPO, HGH, etc. Nothing enhancing. He will rematch Primus and get back in the tournament.”
The suspension casts a shadow over Nurmagomedov's dominant performance against Primus in the Bellator 300 main event. With unanimous 50-45 scorecards, he appeared on track for success in the $1 million lightweight grand prix. However, the recent developments have turned the spotlight on the potential ramifications for Bellator MMA's future.
Bellator President Scott Coker has not yet responded to inquiries about Nurmagomedov’s suspension or the tournament's status. Amidst swirling reports of a potential sale to rival PFL and Paramount's announcement of the impending closure of Showtime Sports, uncertainty looms over the promotion.
In response to Nurmagomedov's positive test, Primus couldn't resist a sarcastic remark.
“I just can’t believe a young undefeated fighter, coming from the camp he’s coming from would cheat and use a banned substance,” the former Bellator lightweight champion commented in a text to MMA Fighting.
As Nurmagomedov navigates the suspension, the fate of the lightweight division and the tournament remains uncertain, marking a turbulent chapter for Bellator MMA.