ACA President Magomed Bibulatov discussed the organization's drug testing program in a candid interview, revealing that more fighters test positive for banned substances than test clean. Bibulatov noted that fighters who accept bouts on short notice tend to be clean because "they didn't have time to apply anything." He explained that the organization gave fighters six months to clear their systems and allowed some therapeutic substances. ACA has data on which fighters use more or fewer prohibited drugs and is considering one-year suspensions for violators. Bibulatov acknowledged that comprehensive testing is expensive and suggested Russian promotions should collaborate on anti-doping efforts, though he doubts other organizations would participate. The league is still determining its long-term approach to addressing the issue.
