UFC’s Jeff Novitzky Debunks Derrick Lewis’ Banned Substances Claim | UFC 324 Prep Explained (2026)

In the world of mixed martial arts, a shocking accusation has emerged, but the truth is far more nuanced. UFC's Anti-Doping Specialist Denies Banned Substance Claims

The story begins with Mohammed Usman, a respected veteran of the UFC, who has been suspended until 2028 for using banned substances. This suspension was extended due to his attempt to mislead the Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD) organization. But here's where it gets controversial: shortly after this news broke, Derrick Lewis, a UFC star known for his humor and knockout record, made a surprising claim.

Lewis, in a recent podcast, stated that the UFC had provided him with 'great peptides,' which he credited for his exceptional shape ahead of UFC 324. This raised eyebrows, especially considering Lewis' history of openly admitting to cheating in fights.

However, the UFC's senior vice president of athlete health and performance, Jeff Novitzky, quickly clarified the situation. He denied Lewis' claim, emphasizing that peptides are banned substances and that the UFC would never provide such substances to its fighters. Novitzky explained that Lewis was referring to injectable compounds that were tested and certified by a third party as allowed, not provided by the UFC.

This incident sheds light on the complex relationship between athletes and performance-enhancing substances. While Lewis' preferred method of cheating involves fouls and acting innocent, his recent comments sparked a debate about the role of organizations in providing or allowing certain substances. And this is the part most people miss: the fine line between performance enhancement and cheating in sports.

So, what's your take? Do you think Lewis' comments were taken out of context, or is there a deeper issue here? Should organizations be more transparent about the substances they allow or provide? Join the discussion and share your thoughts on this intriguing controversy in the world of MMA.

UFC’s Jeff Novitzky Debunks Derrick Lewis’ Banned Substances Claim | UFC 324 Prep Explained (2026)
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