Khalil Rountree, a UFC fighter, will have to sit out for two months after self-reporting a violation of the organization’s anti-doping policy. This decision comes after Rountree admitted to taking a supplement that contained a banned substance, DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone).
The fighter was set to compete at UFC 303, but his admission led to a temporary suspension and removal from his scheduled fight against Jamahal Hill on June 29. Rountree’s sample tested positive for metabolites of DHEA, confirming his use of the banned substance.
Despite providing evidence of receiving the supplement just two days before his sample collection and the lack of significant performance benefits from its use, Rountree still had to face consequences. UFC’s anti-doping policy allowed for a reduced suspension of two months, making him eligible to compete again after July 4.
Unfortunately for Rountree, this means he will miss out on UFC 303. Additionally, he may face further sanctions from the Nevada Athletic Commission due to the location of his scheduled fight in Las Vegas. The NAC will determine if he will face a longer suspension or fines for his doping violation at a future meeting.
Rountree’s case serves as a reminder of the strict anti-doping measures in place in professional sports and the importance of athletes being vigilant about the substances they put into their bodies.