The UFC’s press conference discussing its plans to overhaul its drug-testing procedures is the talk of the MMA universe right now, and former UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre definitely seems to like what he’s hearing. Rush took to Twitter to share his thoughts on the new developments:
Very happy to learn about the UFC announcing a new comprehensive random PED testing.
— Georges St-Pierre (@GeorgesStPierre) February 18, 2015
Clearly a big step in the right direction for our sport.
— Georges St-Pierre (@GeorgesStPierre) February 18, 2015
Can’t wait to get more details about the actual protocol, 3rd party testing agency and new sanctions.
— Georges St-Pierre (@GeorgesStPierre) February 18, 2015
The former champ has long voiced his opposition to the use of performance-enhancing drugs in MMA, and since vacating the UFC belt in November 2013 and taking an indefinite leave from the sport, he has been outspoken regarding what he views as deficiencies in the UFC’s approach to drug testing. He has also said that he will not return to MMA competition unless the UFC embraces independent drug-testing measures.
Obviously, this does not mark a major change in the relatively dire outlook for his MMA future (at last check, GSP had no plans to return in 2015) and fans should not necessarily get their hopes up for a return. That said, this can only help matters.
Drug testing in MMA has become a hot topic once again in recent months. Multiple champions and contenders have been flagged over the last two months, with the news of Anderson Silva failing multiple drug tests surrounding his UFC 183 bout with Nick Diaz shaking the sport to its core.
What happens with MMA drug testing both in and out of the UFC will be a story that could define all of 2015. The first seven weeks of the year have been undeniably troubling, and any steps to help stop PED use in the sport should be applauded. Stick with Bleacher Report for more stories as they become available.
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