Published 25 days ago
Costa Accuses USADA: 200 Tests, a Controversial Record in the UFC
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Brazilian UFC star Paulo Costa claims to have undergone nearly 200 anti-doping tests throughout his career, a figure far exceeding the average and raising questions about USADA’s methods. After a 2019 suspension for an intravenous infusion, he now denounces a "witch hunt" targeting certain athletes and demands symbolic recognition for his tests.
To remember:
- Paulo Costa claims nearly 200 anti-doping tests in his career, a record in the UFC.
- He denounces a "witch hunt" and demands a commemorative jacket like Arman Tsarukyan’s.
- His latest test was on September 15, two days before his fight against Tsarukyan.
- Costa, suspended in 2019 for an intravenous infusion, criticizes USADA’s protocols.
- His 200 tests represent nearly 40% of USADA’s annual tests in middleweight.
The world of mixed martial arts has been in turmoil since Paulo Costa, one of the UFC’s most charismatic fighters, revealed he has undergone nearly 200 anti-doping tests throughout his career. A staggering number, far exceeding the usual average for athletes in the middleweight division. This record, officially confirmed by the USADA, places Costa under constant scrutiny, well beyond standard requirements.
His latest test, conducted on September 15, just two days before his bout against Arman Tsarukyan, reignited an already deep-rooted controversy. Costa, who was suspended for six months in 2019 for an intravenous infusion during a weight-cutting phase, now denounces a "witch hunt" orchestrated by USADA. According to his statements, these 200 tests account for nearly 40% of the annual tests conducted by the agency in his division. A statistic that raises questions: why such targeted surveillance?
A Symbolic Demand to Break the Silence
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Paulo Costa shared his exasperation with a touch of provocation. He is now demanding a commemorative jacket, similar to the one awarded to Tsarukyan for his 50 negative tests. A symbolic reward, but one that, in his view, could put an end to years of heightened surveillance. "If the UFC and USADA truly want to show they are fair, they must acknowledge my commitment and transparency," he stated. A demand that, while legitimate in the eyes of his supporters, remains unresolved.
USADA Under Fire
Costa’s remarks come amid broader skepticism toward USADA’s anti-doping protocols. Several athletes, particularly in the middleweight division, have recently expressed frustration over what they perceive as disproportionate surveillance. Some see it as a strategy to sideline certain fighters, while others cite administrative errors or biases in testing. USADA, for its part, maintains that its procedures are strict and fair, but doubts persist.
As the debate rages on, one question remains: how far will this "witch hunt" go? Paulo Costa, for his part, seems determined to fight—not just in the Octagon, but also for transparency and fairness in the sport he loves.
Between record-breaking tests and accusations of bias, Paulo Costa shines a light on the growing tensions surrounding the UFC’s anti-doping protocols. A situation that questions the future of the sport and athletes’ trust in governing bodies.