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) subsequent to a positive test result for a prohibited substance detected during an out-of-competition drug test.
The suspension was officially announced by USADA representatives on Wednesday.
According to a statement from USADA, the 32-year-old Shabliy`s out-of-competition sample, collected on March 19, 2025, contained recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO). rEPO is classified under Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances, and Mimetics and is banned at all times by the PFL Anti-Doping Policy and Prohibited List.
USADA`s statement explained that Section 10.2 of the PFL ADP typically imposes a six-month ban for a prohibited substance, though it can be extended to a year. However, their investigation indicated Shabliy`s use was not intentional, and he offered significant cooperation regarding the person who administered the substance. Consequently, his six-month ban commenced on March 19, 2025, the date the positive sample was taken.
With this suspension, Shabliy is eligible to return to competition after September 19th.
Recombinant erythropoietin is perpetually banned for athletes as this synthetic compound can artificially boost red blood cell production and improve oxygen delivery, providing a clear advantage in cardiovascular performance and conditioning, particularly crucial for fighters.
Shabliy, now competing under the PFL banner, has not competed since his decision loss to lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov in September 2024. He will now be sidelined until at least September 2025 before being able to compete again.
