Looks like “The Golden State” has the first athletic commission to formally take a stand against testosterone replacement therapy, banning fighters from getting an exemption until a formal policy is established, according to a report by FightOpinion.com
Michael Santiago, a lawyer for the state Department of Community Affairs, argued that the CSAC must have a “statute/regulation on the books regarding testosterone” before TRT exemptions can be granted to fighters, the report says.
Despite facing opposition from Karen Chappelle, an attorney from the Los Angeles Attorney General’s office, Santiago’s argument held water with the commission and a new statute on TRT exemptions must be established since testosterone is on the banned substance list.
Many prominent UFC fighters have received TRT exemptions in the past including three-time title challenger Chael Sonnen, former heavyweight champ Frank Mir, ex-Strikeforce heavyweight title holder Alistair Overeem and middleweight contender Vitor Belfort.
The news is most relevant for a fighter like Belfort, who remains a unanimous pick as one of the top 3 middleweights in the world.
Belfort boasts a 5-1 record at 185-pounds, with his sole loss coming at the hands of current divisional kingpin Anderson Silva.
“The Phenom” has looked better than ever recently, defeating top 10 middleweights Michael Bisping and Luke Rockhold via devastating headkick knockouts in his two most recent fights.
However, Nevada State Athletic Commission Executive Director Keith Kizer has already stated in the past that it is doubtful the board would grant Belfort a TRT exemption since he tested positive for steroids in 2006.
Now, given the CSAC’s latest ruling, it appears it will be at least a few months before TRT exemptions are permitted again.
Belfort’s past four fights have occurred in either Brazil or Canada, so fans continue to question if he would be able to pass drug tests administered by American athletic commissions.
If the report is true, will the CSAC’s recent decision on TRT impact where the UFC holds some of their fall and winter events in 2013?