Before Cris "Cyborg" Justino can step into the cage to fight Charmaine Tweet on Feb. 27, 2015, in Los Angeles, Calif., she must first prove to California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) that she is free of all performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).
That's according to MMA Fighting, which got word from CSAC officials that "Cyborg" won't be issued her license to compete until the urine sample she provided this morning (Thurs., Feb. 11, 2015) comes back negative when the results are returned on or around Feb. 24, 2015.
Earlier this year, Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) light heavyweight champion Jon Jones was allowed to go ahead with his championship fight against Daniel Cormier at UFC 182 in Las Vegas, Nevada, after his pre-fight drug test showed "Bones" had cocaine in his system.
But, since cocaine is not a banned substance for out-of-completion drug testing, Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) couldn't prevent him from competing. Plus, it was his "right to fight," according to UFC President Dana White.
In 2012, "Cyborg" tested positive for steroids after demolishing Hiroko Yamanaka in San Diego, California. As a result, her win was overturned to a "no decision" and she was fined $2,500. Furthermore, her license to fight in California was suspended.
It's that positive drug test that has been hanging over Justino's head ever since. And one of the major reasons a bout between her and UFC women's bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey has yet to be made. As "Rowdy" clearly stated, she won't move up in weight because the "cheater" can't drop down to 135 pounds thanks to the extra mass she put on with drugs.
After bailing on her plans to drop to bantamweight, Justino will continue to compete at featherweight as Invicta's champion for the timebeing. Of course, that's assuming she can pass her latest drug test.
Fingers crossed.