• UFC 152

Penn and MacDonald sign up for VADA testing

ESPN staff
July 27, 2012
BJ Penn has been a role model for MMA © Getty Images
Enlarge

BJ Penn and Rory MacDonald will look to set an example for others to follow at UFC 152 after both subscribed to the Voluntary Anti-Doping Agency (VADA) for testing.

The image of mixed martial arts has been damaged by a series of high-profile failed drug tests in recent times, but lightweight legend Penn is keen to lift the sport above the murky waters of debates over treatments like Testosterone Replacement Therapy.

Penn has been one of the more vocal voices when fighters have failed tests, always insisting his brand of fighting is 100 per cent natural. On September 22 he and MacDonald will be totally clean, confirmed by the VADA.

"BJ Penn has enrolled in the VADA program and will undergo eight weeks of random blood and urine testing for his UFC 152 bout taking place in Toronto, Canada on September 22, 2012," a statement read.

"He has agreed that all test results will be immediately forwarded to the Association of Boxing Commissions (ABC), the Ontario Athletic Commission, and the UFC."

MacDonald's manager Lex McMahon has confirmed the 170-pounder's agreement to the testing period, which will run over the eight weeks leading up to the fight.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices