Khabib Nurmagomedov's cousin banned for six months after failing drugs test

12 November 2023 , 07:31

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Usman Nurmagomedov has been banned for six months after failing a drugs test (Image: AP)

Khabib Nurmagomedov's cousin Usman has been slapped with a six-month ban after testing positive for a banned substance.

Usman's positive drugs test comes just a month on from his Bellator lightweight world title defence against Brent Primus, which has since been overturned to a no-contest. The Russian has been fined $50,000 by the California State Athletic Commission after his test failure, which stemmed from a prescription medicine.

"I would like to give a comment regarding latest news on my suspension," Usman wrote. "The results of my test revealed a prohibited substance that entered my body through medications, prescribed to me by a doctor. A few months before my fight, I was undergoing treatment, but unfortunately I did not notify the athletic commission in advance.

Usman Nurmagomedov (left) with his cousin Khabib (https://www.instagram.com/p/Ch7krvAq09Y/)

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"I would like to note that the California State Athletic Commission conducted its own full investigation, where I provided all the necessary documents, doctor notes and medical certificates, thanks to which the period of my disqualification was reduced to 6 months, instead of longer suspensions accepted in such cases."

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It's unclear what substance Usman tested positive for, but his manager Ali Abedalziz told MMA Fighting that it wasn't an anabolic steroid. "Usman was prescribed medication for an illness he had. It’s not an anabolic steroid, EPO, HGH, etc. Nothing enhancing. He will rematch Primus and get back in the [grand prix] tournament.”

Nurmagomedov advanced to the finals of Bellator's $1 million lightweight grand prix tournament, but it's unclear as to whether the tournament will go ahead. Bellator's future is uncertain after its parent company Paramount announced the closure of Showtime Sports at the end of the year.

Nurmagomedov has not been stripped of his Bellator lightweight world title despite the positive test. Primus reacted to his opponent's test failure by sarcastically writing: “I just can’t believe a young undefeated fighter, coming from the camp he’s coming from would cheat and use a banned substance."

Harry Davies