MMA fighter Alexander Shabliy, who previously challenged for the Bellator lightweight title, has received and accepted a six-month ban from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) following a positive test for a prohibited substance during an out-of-competition sample collection.
USADA confirmed the details of the suspension publicly on Wednesday.
In a statement, USADA officials stated that Shabliy, aged 32, tested positive for recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO) from a sample taken outside of competition on March 19, 2025. They noted that rEPO is a substance banned at all times under the PFL`s Anti-Doping Policy and Prohibited List, belonging to the class of Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances, and Mimetics.
According to Section 10.2 of the PFL ADP, the standard suspension for a prohibited substance is six months, though it can extend up to a year. USADA`s investigation into Shabliy`s case suggested his use was unintentional, and he cooperated significantly by providing information about the person who administered the substance. His six-month ban started on March 19, 2025, the date of the positive test.
Consequently, Shabliy is cleared to return to competition after September 19th, 2025.
rEPO is universally banned for athletes as this synthetic substance boosts red blood cell production, improving oxygen delivery and thereby significantly enhancing endurance and conditioning, particularly crucial for fighters.
Shabliy, now fighting in PFL, has been inactive since his decision loss to lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov in September 2024. This suspension means he will not be able to compete again until September 2025 at the earliest.
Murray Blackwood