Grappling superstar Gordon Ryan recently shared his insights on why the UFC Invitational probably won’t implement PED testing for its competitors, citing prohibitive costs as the main factor.
During a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience Companion for UFC London, Ryan engaged in a wide-ranging discussion with host Joe Rogan, along with guests Brendan Schaub and Eddie Bravo. When Rogan inquired about potential testing plans for the UFC’s grappling events, Ryan offered a straightforward assessment.
“You need a business model where you can make that amount of money back, just to pay for testing,”
Ryan explained.
“Most of the guys that are competing on the undercard, or [the ones that are] not even the main event guys, you would actually be losing money testing them regularly.”
The man known as “The King” in grappling circles pointed out that the financial realities of the sport make comprehensive testing programs impractical. According to Ryan, the revenue generated from grappling events often wouldn’t cover the extensive costs associated with proper drug testing protocols.
Ryan’s comments highlight a challenge facing smaller combat sports organizations and specialized events like grappling competitions. While major organizations like the UFC can support comprehensive testing for their main roster through USADA, the economics appear different for subsidiary platforms like the UFC Invitational.
The discussion arose naturally during the group’s commentary on the UFC London event, showcasing Ryan’s candid perspective on the business realities of professional grappling.
Ryan’s assessment suggests that fans of the UFC Invitational should not expect the same level of testing oversight that exists in the promotion’s primary MMA events, at least for the foreseeable future.
