Mohammed Usman has spoken out on social media following major news about his career.
Usman appeared to have secured his UFC future with a win over Hamdy Abdelwahab in his most recent bout.
He would have been hoping to build on that victory, but those plans have been put on hold following a surprising turn of events.
Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) handed the 36-year-old heavyweight a suspension until April 2028 after he tested positive for testosterone.
Usman has since responded to the suspension through a message on his platform.
Mohammed Usman comments on UFC suspension, admits to mistakes
Usman was originally pulled from his fight against Valter Walker after a failed drug test last October, with more information from the UFC coming later.
According to Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD), the six-fight UFC veteran eventually admitted to using banned substances after first denying it.
His initial denial led to an extra six months being added to his ban, pushing his eligibility return date out until April 2028.
Usman has since addressed the situation, taking responsibility for his actions and speaking about what’s next while also thanking the UFC for their support.
“I want to address my suspension,” Usman wrote on Instagram. “During my recovery, I made a mistake while trying to heal, and I take full responsibility for it. This time has allowed me to get my health back, focus on my family, and gain a deeper appreciation for life.
“I have breath in my lungs, life, and I’m truly blessed. I’m taking things one day at a time and staying committed to growth and doing things the right way. I’m grateful to the UFC, Rashad Ali Brian and all my coaches for their continued support. We move forward.”
Mohammed Usman’s historic moment when he joined the UFC
If the UFC had decided to release Mohammed Usman after his lengthy ban, it wouldn’t have come as a shock to many fans.
And given how long he’ll be out of action, it’s tough to predict what shape his career will be in by 2028, should he choose to step back into the cage.
But regardless of what happens next, Usman can always hold onto the fact that he made history when he first joined the promotion back in 2022.
The heavyweight matched his brother’s achievement, making him and Kamaru Usman the first siblings ever to win ‘The Ultimate Fighter’.
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