ACA (Absolute Championship Akhmat) president Magomed Bibulatov has made candid statements about performance-enhancing drug use within his promotion. Bibulatov revealed that more fighters in ACA use banned substances than compete clean, and that fighters who accept bouts on short notice are typically the cleanest because they "don't have time to use anything." The promotion began implementing drug testing after giving fighters six months to clear their systems and allowing certain therapeutic substances. While ACA has data on which fighters use more or fewer banned substances, Bibulatov is uncertain about how to handle violators going forward. He acknowledged that comprehensive drug testing is expensive and suggested Russian promotions should collaborate on anti-doping efforts, though he believes such cooperation is unlikely. Bibulatov indicated he had considered one-year suspensions for violators but has not finalized a policy.
