‘TUF 25’ winner Jesse Taylor flagged for USADA violation
Jesse Taylor’s redemption story didn’t last long.
The middleweight has been flagged for a potential violation of the UFC’s anti-doping policy by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.
As a result, Taylor has been pulled out of a bout against Belal Muhammad on Nov. 18 in Sydney, Australia.
Taylor won Season 25 of “The Ultimate Fighter,” which was dubbed “TUF: Redemption” because the theme was second chances for past competitors on the reality show.
The 34-year-old had advanced to the finals of Season 7 before being kicked off the show and removed from the championship match after celebrating a semifinal win by wreaking havoc at Palace Station.
An out-of-competition sample collected Aug. 22 was responsible for the potential violation. No details on the positive test were revealed beyond the collection date.
USADA will handle the adjudication process.
“Under the UFC anti-doping policy, there is a full and fair legal process that is afforded to all athletes before any sanctions are imposed,” a statement read. “Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time as the process moves forward.”
UFC officials will seek a replacement opponent for Muhammad.
Contact Adam Hill at ahill@reviewjournal.com or 702-277-8028. Follow @adamhilllvrj on Twitter.
