Jiu Jitsu champion Gordon Ryan is advocating for the UFC to take a bolder step following the recent announcement that the promotion is ending its eight-year association with the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).
In contrast to the strict drug testing protocols in mixed martial arts promotions, drug testing is virtually non-existent in jiu-jitsu, where Gordon is considered a legend. This renowned jiu-jitsu expert envisions that the USADA’s departure could signal a return to the UFC’s earlier era, when fighters were free to use any performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) of their choice.
According to the world champion grappler, if the premier promotion decides to completely cease drug testing, it could bring significant benefits to both the fighters and the sport. He expressed this sentiment in a social media post. “If the UFC chooses to stop drug testing, the sport will blow up, athletes will be healthier and compete longer, and fans will enjoy watching more… period.” said Gordon Ryan.
“If the UFC chooses to stop drug testing, the sport will blow up, athletes will be healthier and compete longer, and fans will enjoy watching more…period.”
Gordon Ryan on UFC and USADA splitting up pic.twitter.com/b0KwTXzFb2
— Bloody Elbow (@BloodyElbow) October 13, 2023
Ryan also justified his comment by saying that the reason people watch sports is largely for entertainment value, and PEDs will do nothing but increase the entertainment in the UFC, and higher testosterone means higher physical efforts and performance from the fighters. He further added that steroids will also help the athletes in their recovery, which means a longer and healthier career for them.
While the United States Anti-Doping Agency will no longer oversee the UFC’s anti-doping efforts by the year’s end, it’s essential to note that the world’s biggest MMA promotion won’t turn into a lawless environment that runs on performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).
In reality, Jeff Novitzky, the UFC’s senior vice president of athlete health and performance, has confirmed that Drug-Free Sports International will take charge of the anti-doping program starting in January 2024.
Demetrius Johnson reacts to the suggestion by Gordon Ryan.
While many individuals view PEDs as a form of cheating or opting for a quick fix, Ryan appears to regard the notion of using a greater quantity of substances than the typical BJJ practitioner as a form of distinction. Somehow, he perceives this as a mark of heightened determination and a willingness to embrace greater risks than others in pursuit of greatness.
However, not many are impressed with Ryan’s suggestion to the UFC, including flyweight legend Demetrius Johnson. ‘Might Mouse‘ replied to the post, saying, “Why can’t they just do it natty style? All you need is a good bootie,/ somewater,d somerest,t and you Gucci famil!!”
why can’t they just do it natty style??? All you need is good bootie 🍑 / some water and some rest and you gucci FAM!!
— Demetrious Johnson (@MightyMouse) October 14, 2023
So, it is quite clear from DJ’s witty response that he does not stand by steroid usage when it comes to fighting in MMA. As for Gordon Ryan, despite being only 28 years old, the Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu sensation has already faced a series of significant health challenges over the past few years. However, it remains uncertain to what extent these health issues can be attributed to the substances he has been using.