Mohammed Usman Removed From UFC

In a major development within the world of mixed martial arts, Mohammed Usman has been formally removed from the UFC roster after being handed a lengthy anti-doping suspension.

The news, confirmed by UFC officials and reported widely in MMA media, signals a turning point for the heavyweight contender and raises questions about the organization’s recent shift in fighter personnel decisions.

UFC Ends Contract Amid Anti-Doping Penalty

Mohammed Usman, a former Ultimate Fighter winner and rising heavyweight, has officially been dropped from the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s active roster.

This decision comes after the Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) agency handed down a 30-month suspension for a violation of the UFC’s anti-doping policy.

The suspension stems from an out-of-competition drug test that revealed the presence of elevated testosterone levels, which are prohibited under UFC rules.

According to reports, Usman also admitted to using BPC-157, a banned peptide, during a period of injury recovery earlier in 2025.

What made the case particularly serious was not just the positive test, but the aggravating factors that CSAD cited in its ruling.

Officials stated that although Usman ultimately admitted to using the substances, he did so only after being confronted with evidence gathered during the investigation.

There were also allegations that he attempted to provide misleading explanations to investigators, a move the agency said contributed to the extended suspension.

Long Layoff Before Return

With the suspension backdated to October 9, 2025, Usman will be barred from competing until at least April 9, 2028.

At that time, he will be 39 years old, a significant age for a fighter attempting to return to peak performance in the heavyweight division.

The ban has effectively halted Usman’s momentum. Earlier in his UFC career, he showed promise as a heavyweight contender.

After winning The Ultimate Fighter Season 30, he improved his record within the promotion to 4–2, including notable wins that hinted at potential future success.

His last bout before the suspension was a victory over Hamdy Abdelwahab at UFC Baku in June 2025, a fight that showcased his skill and power on a big stage.

That triumph stood as his sole competitive outing in 2025 before the drug test halted his activity.

UFC Releases Another Fighter

Mohammed Usman isn’t the only athlete on the move. The UFC also removed Adam Fugitt from its roster on the same day.

Fugitt, a welterweight competitor, held a 2–4 record with the promotion and recently suffered a knockout loss at UFC 324. His release follows a trend of roster changes occurring across the organization.

Fugitt’s tenure included some bright moments, such as his debut against Michael Morales and two wins that hinted at potential. However, his recent performances didn’t meet the level of consistency the UFC expected.

What This Means for Usman

Now a free agent, Mohammed Usman’s path back to top-level competition is uncertain. The UFC could opt to sign him again after his suspension ends.

Still, that decision would depend on many factors, including his age, condition after the layoff, and public perception following the anti-doping violation.

For many fighters in similar situations, the end of a UFC contract opens doors to other promotions.

Organizations such as Bellator, PFL, and international circuits have previously welcomed former UFC athletes looking to rebuild their careers.

Usman could explore these routes if he remains committed to fighting once eligible again.

In the meantime, the 36-year-old heavyweight has expressed regret over the situation. In previous public statements following the suspension announcement, Usman acknowledged mistakes during his recovery process and emphasized a renewed focus on personal growth, health, and family.

Broader Implications for the UFC

Usman’s departure highlights the UFC’s ongoing efforts to enforce its anti-doping standards stringently.

The promotion and CSAD have publicly stated that violations will have real consequences, and this case reinforces that message.

Fighters who fail tests or violate protocol can expect stiff penalties, including long suspensions and removal from the roster.

Moreover, this roster move comes amid broader changes within the UFC. Several other fighters have been released or allowed to leave the promotion recently, signaling that the company continues to refine its lineup based on performance, compliance, and future potential.

What Fans Need to Know

For MMA fans following Mohammed Usman’s story, the key takeaways are clear:

• He was removed from the UFC roster after a 30-month suspension for a positive drug test and related issues.
• Usman won The Ultimate Fighter and compiled a respectable record before the suspension.
• At the end of his ban in 2028, he will be nearing his 40s, which may affect his fighting prospects.
• The UFC also released Adam Fugitt, indicating broader roster turnover.

As the situation evolves, MMA media and fans will be watching to see if Usman pursues opportunities outside the UFC or seeks reinstatement when eligible.