Before even setting foot in a UFC Octagon for his debut, Abdul-Kerim Edilov potentially committed a violation of the UFC’s anti-doping policy.
According to a statement released by the UFC, the Russian prospect was informed of a “potential Anti-Doping Policy violation stemming from an out-of-competition sample collection.”
Edilov (16-4) was scheduled to make his UFC debut against Francimar Barroso during the Fight Pass portion of the card. The 24-year-old fought on the Russian regional circuit for his entire career and was expected to make his first professional appearance on American soil. Edilov fought for the likes of M-1 Global, ACB, Fight Nights and most recently for World Fighting Championship Akhmat, the Chechen promotion funded by the republic’s ruler Ramzan Kadyrov. Edilov is a relative of the Chechen president.
‘The Chechen Lion’ was one of BE’s Top 10 scouted prospects. He has only gone the distance twice in his MMA career and compiled seven submissions and eight knockouts during that five-year span.
However, the statement went on to clarify that Edilov would have the opportunity to present his case and go through the necessary USADA adjudication before he is potentially suspended.
“It is important to note that, under the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, there is a full and fair legal process that is afforded to all athletes before any sanctions are imposed. Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time as the process moves forward.”
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