The MMA world was stunned Tuesday night by the news of Conor McGregor’s ban from the sport. McGregor, who held titles in two weight classes, has been hit with an 18-month suspension.
He hasn’t failed a drug test. Instead, he’s being punished for not giving anti-doping officials the correct information about his whereabouts on three occasions.
Speaking on The MMA Hour, Ariel Helwani shared his thoughts: “You can say ‘Hey, it’s only three tests.’ I get all of that,” he said. “But you also have to understand this is a very slippery slope.”
“I’m not saying what they did is wrong or right. I’m just telling you this is wild. This whole thing is wild.”
Ariel Helwani reacts to Conor McGregor’s 18-month ban
Ariel Helwani isn’t a fan of the daily check-ins required of UFC fighters, who have to provide their location every day.
Even when they aren’t scheduled for a fight, athletes are still expected to be available for drug testing at any time.
“I always feel weird about the missed testing thing,” Helwani said. “The UFC fighters have to update their whereabouts on an app, they need to know where they are every single day.
“I just think that’s wild. As an independent contractor, having to tell your promotion 24/7, 365, where you are. Oh, by the way, they also tell you what to wear when you compete for them. That’s pretty damn strict.
How long is Conor McGregor suspended for?
Conor McGregor’s suspension has been backdated to 20 September, 2024. He won’t be eligible to return until March 20, 2026 – but that date still puts him back in the mix well ahead of his planned comeback.
McGregor is hoping to headline a UFC event at the White House next year. The event will take place on June 14, which happens to be President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.
READ MORE: Alex Pereira speaks out on potential return before UFC White House card
The timing of his ban shouldn’t affect his return, as he hasn’t fought since breaking his leg at UFC 264 in July 2021.
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