Former UFC title challenger Volkan Oezdemir is now facing a 16-month suspension after testing positive for EPO, a bombshell he dropped himself on Instagram this Friday. The UFC’s anti-doping program, Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD), recently handed down the ban, which the UFC has officially confirmed. This isn’t just some rumor; Oezdemir fully admitted to using the banned substance.
The Lapsed Judgment and The Healthcare Professional
Oezdemir revealed he took the substance on the recommendation of a healthcare professional. He was recovering from an ankle injury when he met this Swiss professional, who initially started as a business venture before pivoting to his recovery. This professional apparently told Oezdemir the substance would speed up his healing and, get this, be undetectable. So, Oezdemir obliged, taking an injection. He is taking full responsibility for what he calls a “lapse in judgment,” and the UFC noted his transparency throughout the process, even engaging with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) which then notified Swiss authorities for an interview.
“The Biggest Mistake of My Life”
The positive test itself came back in February, according to Oezdemir. That means he won’t be eligible to return to the Octagon until June 2027. By then, he’ll be 37 years old. Oezdemir’s statement pulled no punches: “That was my decision. And it was the biggest mistake of my life.” He continued, describing the moment he found out on March 5: “In that moment, the illusion was shattered, and my reality changed. But in a way, it was also a relief. I decided to tell the UFC everything. I cooperated immediately. I did the same with CSAD.” It’s a brutal reality check, and you gotta wonder what this means for the rest of his career. Being out for over a year, hitting 37 on return, that’s a tough road back for any fighter.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
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