Alexander Shabliy, a former lightweight title challenger for Bellator, has accepted a six-month suspension from the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA). This ban follows a positive test result for a prohibited substance from an out-of-competition drug test.
USADA officials officially announced the suspension on Wednesday.
According to a statement from USADA, Shabliy, aged 32, tested positive for recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO). The positive sample was collected on March 19, 2025. rEPO is classified under Peptide Hormones, Growth Factors, Related Substances, and Mimetics and is strictly prohibited at all times under both the PFL Anti-Doping Policy (ADP) and the PFL Prohibited List.
The PFL ADP outlines a standard six-month period of ineligibility for the use of a prohibited substance, although this period can be extended up to a year under specific circumstances (Section 10.2). In Shabliy`s case, USADA`s investigation suggested the use was not intentional, and he provided significant cooperation, including identifying the individual who administered the EPO. Consequently, the standard six-month ban was applied. The period of ineligibility began on March 19, 2025, the date the positive sample was collected.
Based on the timeline of his suspension, Shabliy will become eligible to compete again after September 19, 2025.
Recombinant erythropoietin is banned for athletes because this synthetic drug increases the production of red blood cells. This process enhances the body`s capacity to carry oxygen, providing a notable advantage, particularly in cardio and conditioning for fighters.
Shabliy, who is currently competing under the PFL banner, has not fought since September 2024, when he lost a decision to lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov. Due to this ban, he will now be unable to compete until at least September 2025.
