Following his bout on February 14 at ONE Friday Fights 97, fighter Dmitry Menshikov has addressed the failed drug test announced by ONE Championship. The promotion reported that Menshikov`s sample contained fonturacetam and furosemide, substances prohibited under their anti-doping policy aligned with WADA standards, resulting in a six-month ban. Menshikov maintains his innocence regarding intentional use.
In a statement issued through his legal representatives in Switzerland, Menshikov refuted allegations of deliberate doping. He asserted that his only medication use is doctor-prescribed and that he steers clear of unverified supplements. While acknowledging the possibility of contamination, he stressed his previously clean record.
Menshikov`s legal team criticized ONE`s anti-doping framework, labeling it as non-compliant with WADA guidelines. They described the appeals mechanism as “opaque” and “fundamentally unfair,” recommending against pursuing an appeal.
Menshikov, who had recently voiced a desire to potentially leave ONE over inactivity, hinted that the timing of ONE`s announcement might be significant. He stated, “I want to reassure fans that I do not, did not, and will not use performance-enhancing substances.”
ONE Championship`s Reply
ONE Championship has dismissed Dmitry Menshikov`s assertions regarding a lack of transparency in their drug testing procedures. Since August 2022, sample collection has been handled by International Doping Tests & Management (IDTM), recognized globally in doping control.
Experienced IDTM personnel collect samples, which are then sent for analysis to laboratories certified by WADA. IDTM`s clientele includes major sports leagues such as the NBA, NFL, and MLB, underpinning the reliability of the process.
Ellis Thorne