At a time when it seems we’re constantly reporting on athletes that fail to meet the standard for anti-doping in mixed martial arts, it’s refreshing to report on a fighter that is being honored for the opposite.
Former UFC champion Holly Holm recently became the first fighter since the UFC Anti-Doping Policy was initiated to complete 50 drug tests without incident.
“Holly Holm is the epitome of a leader and a role model. So to recognize Holly for her 50 tests, we’ve stepped our game up a bit,” UFC Vice President of Athlete Heath and Performance Jeff Novitzky said in a video on Twitter.
“We couldn’t be more honored and more excited to honor Holly Holm.”
Holm later posted on her Instagram account, acknowledging her accomplishment:
“I’ve been in sports my whole life and always loved the grind. It’s the grind that gives a feeling of accomplishment and it feels good to know you’ve pushed your limits. I’ve always felt the hard work also gave mental strength. And there’s a pride in knowing all accomplishments are from that passion and that grind. I never thought there was a count, but USADA stopped by Jackson Wink MMA and said I was the first athlete to have over 50 tests. Thank you USADA for your positive support and helping keep the sport clean. And thank you for my new spiffy jacket. I also know there are many organizations testing many athletes. Hats off to all the athletes putting that work in.”
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? Congrats @HollyHolm – the first UFC athlete to successfully complete 50 USADA tests without issue. pic.twitter.com/6kVzAql1PO
— UFC (@ufc) February 13, 2020