Azamat Murzakanov, a top UFC light heavyweight, has been suspended for six months due to a positive test for LGD-4033 from a tainted supplement, marking his second anti-doping violation and delaying his return to competition until May 1, 2025.
Azamat Murzakanov, a top-tier light heavyweight in the UFC, won’t be stepping into the octagon in early 2025. Bummer, right? Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD), the UFC’s anti-doping partner, dropped the news on Monday. Why? Well, Murzakanov’s been hit with a six-month suspension after testing positive for LGD-4033. This happened during an out-of-competition test on October 8th.
Now, here’s where it gets tricky. The CSAD said the positive result came from a “purported dietary supplement” Murzakanov handed over. It was tested and—surprise!—showed a low-level presence of LGD-4033. Funny thing is, it wasn’t even listed as an ingredient on the label. But rules are rules, and since the supplement wasn’t “third-party tested and certified,” boom, suspension.
Oh, and this isn’t his first rodeo with anti-doping violations. Nope, it’s his second since joining the UFC. That doubled his suspension from 90 to 180 days. Back in 2019, USADA—the UFC’s old anti-doping buddy—announced a two-year suspension for Murzakanov due to a 2017 violation before his planned UFC debut. Fast forward: he clawed his way back via the Contender Series in 2021 and now boasts a slick 4-0 record with three stoppage wins inside the cage.
Mark your calendars! His suspension officially kicked off on November 1st. He’ll be eligible to return on May 1st next year. Can’t wait to see him back in action!