Rising UFC strawweight Iasmin Lucindo has been suspended by both the UFC and Nevada State Athletic Commission (NAC) for a failed drug test, but her team denies any intentional wrongdoing.
Lucindo (18-6 MMA, 5-2 UFC) tested positive for mesterolone conducted by the promotion’s anti-doping program Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD), her team informed MMA Junkie after her name appeared on a hearing for Wednesday’s monthly NAC meeting.
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CSAD suspended Lucindo and the NAC continued the mater during a hearing Wednesday as the investigation continues.
Lucindo’s team denied any intentional wrongdoing and said they are actively working with both CSAD and the NSAC to determine if a contaminated substance is to blame.
Lucindo’s manager, Tiago Okamura, of On The Road Management, issued the following statement to MMA Junkie on Wednesday.
“In late September, Iasmin was flagged for metabolites of a prohibited substance. However, she was tested in August after her fight, with the result returning negative, and again in October, which also came back negative.
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“Iasmin has not knowingly used any prohibited substances and based on the amount and type of the detected metabolites, we firmly believe that this is a case of contamination rather than intentional use. We are working diligently, in collaboration with Drug Free Sports and the UFC, to identify the source of this contamination.
“We are actively working to find answers. Since the test was conducted while Iasmin was booked to fight in Las Vegas, the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) has jurisdiction over this matter and we are working with them aswell to clear the situation.
“As we stand, we have identified two supplements that align with the timeline of the tests. These samples have been sent to the SMRTL labs in Utah for comprehensive testing, with the hope of uncovering the cause and ensuring transparency for all involved.”
Lucindo, 23, is viewed by many as one of the division’s brightest young fighters. She most recently competed in August against Angela Hill, who she defeated by unanimous decision. Since the positive test was in September, the result will not be changed. Lucindo was expected to face Gillian Robertson at UFC on ESPN 73 on Dec. 13, but was removed from the bout and replaced by Amanda Lemos.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Rising UFC star fails drug test; team suspects contamination
