Now - Zafar Mohsen fails doping test after PFL win

(From PFL MMA, December 2024)

This article in a nutshell:

• Zafar Mohsen's victory at the PFL's "Battle of the Giants" in October 2024 was just overturned after a failed drug test, leading to a one-year suspension that will keep him out of competition until December 2025. The incident highlights the strict anti-doping regulations in MMA and in the PFL.

Also see the original results from the event:

• Francis is back - full results from the PFL (click to read)

Main article

Incident

In a quite shocking turn of events, Afghanistan's Zafar Mohsen has been caught up in a doping scandal following his recent victory at the Professional Fighters League (PFL) event "Battle of the Giants", held on October 19, 2024, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We recently covered the event, see the link at the bottom.

Mohsen, 29, secured a unanimous decision victory over Husein Kadimagomaev in what was a highly anticipated bout. However, post-fight drug testing revealed that his sample tested positive for a banned substance. According to some sources, the substance was drostanolone, a banned anabolic steroid.

Mohsen reportedly did not dispute the result and thus received a suspension of 1 year and a $2,000 fine. His unanimous decision win was also overturned to a "no contest".

(From PFL MMA, December 2024)

A look at Mohsen’s career

Before this setback, Mohsen had built a solid record in the professional MMA scene, with 14 wins and just 4 losses. He had been ranked as the 16th Pro Men's Featherweight in Europe Western, and his rise in the ranks appeared to be on track. This doping violation has not only cost him a victory but could set back his potential future bouts, putting a damper on what had seemed like a promising career.

See his recent fight against Husein Kadimagomaev in PFL below.

What’s next for Mohsen?

With his suspension in place, Mohsen will have to wait until December 2025 to compete again. During this time, he will need to reflect on his training and preparation. For any fighter, a suspension can be a hard pill to swallow, but it can also be an opportunity to reset, grow, and come back stronger.

The PFL’s swift action in addressing this issue sends a strong message about the organization’s commitment to maintaining a level playing field. While this is undoubtedly a setback for Zafar Mohsen, it serves as a stark reminder to all fighters about the importance of adhering to anti-doping rules. The consequences of a failed drug test are clear: it can cost you victories, rankings, and your career trajectory.

Stay tuned for further updates on Zafar Mohsen’s return to the octagon.

Other articles

While you're at it, feel free to take a look at some of our other articles:

• Francis is back - full results from the PFL (click to read)

• 3 crucial questions that will shape the PFL's future (click to read)

• PFL: Recap - full predictions for Battle of the Giants this week (click to read)