In the rigorous world of professional mixed martial arts, maintaining competitive integrity through stringent anti-doping measures is a constant endeavor. As the year 2025 crosses its midpoint, the UFC`s updated testing statistics provide a clear picture of which athletes are under the most frequent scrutiny. These numbers are a key, if sometimes overlooked, indicator of activity and status within the promotion.
According to the latest data released, one name stands out prominently at the top of the list for the most drug tests administered so far this year: UFC Bantamweight Champion, Merab `The Machine` Dvalishvili.
Merab Dvalishvili: The Most Tested Fighter in 2025
Merab Dvalishvili has been subjected to testing a total of seven times through the first half of 2025, placing him ahead of every other athlete on the UFC roster. This frequency is notable, though perhaps understandable when considering the Georgian`s recent activity and standing.
Dvalishvili has had an exceptional year performance-wise, successfully defending his Bantamweight title twice in high-profile bouts against Umar Nurmagomedov and Sean O`Malley. His dominant run has not gone unnoticed by testers, nor by analysts, as he recently shared ESPN MMA`s male fighter of the midyear honors with Ilia Topuria.
The champion himself recently hinted at future plans after a meeting with UFC executive Hunter Campbell, posting a message for fans to “stay tuned.” This suggests another significant fight is likely in the works, potentially against top contender Cory Sandhagen, which would undoubtedly keep him firmly within the testing pool`s highest tier.
A comparison to his testing volume in the previous year highlights the current intensity. In the entirety of 2024, during which he also competed twice, Dvalishvili was tested nine times. Reaching seven tests by June 2025 indicates an accelerated rate of scrutiny.
Other Champions and Contenders Under Scrutiny
While Dvalishvili leads, he is not alone among champions facing frequent tests. Another fighter who has had a breakthrough year is also high on the list. Kayla Harrison, who made a successful and title-winning debut in the women`s bantamweight division at UFC 316 (the same event where Dvalishvili defeated O`Malley), is the next champion on the list with five tests administered so far this year. Harrison was also recognized for her impactful start, being named ESPN MMA`s female fighter of the midyear.
Following closely with four tests each are several other prominent figures in the sport, including former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira, current lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, and middleweight contender Khamzat Chimaev. Their inclusion highlights that testing frequency correlates strongly with an athlete`s status and activity level within the promotion, particularly those in or near title contention.
The consistent flow of testing statistics serves as a reminder of the ongoing effort to maintain a level playing field in the UFC, ensuring that while the drama unfolds inside and outside the octagon – from fight bookings to title controversies – the fundamental checks on fighter integrity continue apace. For the sport`s elite like Merab Dvalishvili, it appears that being at the top means being under the microscope more often than anyone else.
Percy Harlow