Means pulled from UFC main event due to potential Anti-Doping policy violation
Ultimate Fighting Championship welterweight Tim Means has been pulled from his main event bout against Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone on Feb. 21 due to a potential anti-doping violation, the organization announced Wednesday.
While the source of the positive test was not revealed, Means indicated on Twitter the failure was the result of the presence of Ostarine, a selective androgen receptor modulator.
“Never even heard of ostarine! Look at my (physique),” he posted. “Do I look like a steroid user! Lol.”
The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, which independently administers the UFC’s drug-testing program, notified the organization of the potential violation.
According to a statement released by the organization, an out-of-competition test was flagged. Means still has the opportunity to go through a review process before a final determination is made, but that process won’t be completed in time for him to fight on the card.
“It is important to note that, under the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, there is a full and fair review process that is afforded to all athletes before any sanctions are imposed,” the statement read. “However, because Means was scheduled to compete against Donald Cerrone on February 21 in Pittsburgh, there is insufficient time for a full review and proper promotion before the scheduled bout.
“As a result, UFC will announce shortly a replacement opponent for Cerrone on the UFC Fight Night card in Pittsburgh.”
UFC Fight Night 83 is slated to air on Fox Sports 1.
Contact reporter Adam Hill at ahill@reviewjournal.com or 702-224-5509. Follow him on Twitter: @adamhilllvrj
