Story perspectives

Levi Rodrigues Faces UFC Uncertainty After Positive Drug Test

12/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Levi Rodrigues faces an uncertain UFC future after testing positive for nandrolone following a Dana White's Contender Series fight, with the win potentially overturned.
The substance was used for a 2024 back injury.
Rodrigues has no prior doping violations.
Abdul-Malik remains undefeated at 9-0-1 and has earned praise as a potential turning point in his career.
Contender Series drug tests have varied, affecting fighters' contracts differently.

History

Historical Context

The UFC's partnership with the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) began in 2016 to combat performance-enhancing drug use, following a trend in sports towards stricter doping regulations. Since 2013, random testing has flagged over 30% of fighters, revealing the ongoing struggle against doping. Levi Rodrigues' recent positive test for nandrolone underscores the significant impact of these regulations on athletes' careers and the sport's integrity.

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Story summary

Levi Rodrigues faces an uncertain UFC future after testing positive for nandrolone following a Dana White's Contender Series fight, with the win potentially overturned.
The substance was used for a 2024 back injury.
Rodrigues has no prior doping violations.
Abdul-Malik remains undefeated at 9-0-1 and has earned praise as a potential turning point in his career.
Contender Series drug tests have varied, affecting fighters' contracts differently.

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