Ostarine continues to pop up in supplements taken by UFC fighters.
The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency on Tuesday announced a settlement with UFC lightweight Thibault Gouti, who accepted a six-month suspension when a positive drug test was traced back to the banned selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM).
Gouti also popped positive for four other substances: LGD-4033, its metabolite di-hydroxy-LGD-4033 and GW1516 metabolites GW1516 sulfoxide and GW1516 sulfone, according to a statement released by USADA.
LGD-4033 and ostarine are classified as non-specified substances in the class of anabolic agents, while GW1516 is a non-specified substance in the category of hormone and metabolic modulators. All carry a one-year suspension for first-time offenders.
After failing an out-of-competition test conducted March 12, Gouti provided USADA with information about a dietary supplement he used for two days “before returning it to the store when he realized that ostarine was listed on the label.”
USADA said it obtained an open container from Gouti and purchased another, and tests confirmed the supplement was tainted with the banned performance-enhancers. The product has been added to a list of risky products maintained by the agency.
For his cooperation with USADA, Gouti received a six-month reduction in his suspension, which is retroactive to April 25, 2019, the date his provisional suspension was imposed.
Gouti (12-4 MMA, 1-5 UFC) has been sidelined since a loss to Nasrat Haqparast at UFC Fight Night 138 that marked his second consecutive setback in the octagon. His overall UFC record stands at 1-5.
Several fighters have accepted settlements with USADA after the anti-doping agency found ostarine in their supplements. USADA has pushed regulators to ban selective androgen receptor modulators. Former UFC heavyweight Josh Barnett was the first fighter to beat a proposed suspension for ostarine, receiving only a verbal warning after being threatened with an 18-month ban.
