With the new USADA-UFC program in effect, MMA Junkie reports that despite no substance abuse program, the UFC promises help for those that need it.
Although the USADA-UFC program will test for recreational drugs, it does not provide assistance for those that may need assistance for a substance-abuse problem. Major sports leagues have some policy which helps its players with substance abuse issues.
The first positive test results in a one year suspension plus an additional two year for aggravating circumstances.
UFC Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance Jeff Novitsky indicated that it would create an option to provide resources to help athletes with substance abuse problems. Although there is no mandatory treatment program, Novitsky indicated that it would want to aid any fighter in need of substance abuse help. Entering a treatment program may mitigate a suspension according to Novitsky. He did not know if the UFC, the fighter or some combination of both would pay for drug treatment.
Payout Perspective:
The discovery that Jon Jones tested positive for cocaine use in December 2014 should have made the UFC aware that recreational drugs is a reality in the sport. Of course, in February 2015, Nick Diaz tested positive for marijuana so there’s that as well. The issue here is whether an “ad hoc” program to help contracted fighters for drug issues will work. Moreover, who is paying for it? One would think that when the UFC outlined an anti-doping policy it would have also planned a policy for substance abuse issues. It appears to be a part of its Fighter Code of Conduct. In the code it indicates that a fighter may be disciplined for “[c]riminal offenses related to performance-enhancing and prohibited substances, or substance abuse.”
While anti-doping issues seem to be of primary concern, substance abuse issues have yet to be formally addressed. We shall see if the UFC introduces something more than just a “call and we’ll help” sort of policy.
Just like they helped Mayhem and Leben
How are boxing promoters taking care of Jermaine Taylor?
UFC is only willing to help rehab fighters that they can still make money off of like Nick Diaz and Jon Jones…
Boxing promoters are really good for helping out fighters who are severely injured in the ring like Gerald McClellan, Meldrick Taylor, Jermaine Taylor, etc. They care about their fighters. Hahaha.
I do not agree at all with the UFC’s plan to try and become a “league”.
But I’ll let time tell if it was a stupid idea or a brilliant one.