Rony Jason Tests Positive Following May 30 UFC Fight Night Win, Suspended 9 Months

Rony “Jason” Mariano Bezerra has tested positive for the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide following his first-round submission of Damon Jackson on May 30 in Goiania, Brazil, alleges the Brazilian MMA Athletic Commission (CABMMA).

As a result, Bezerra’s win has been overturned and the bout will be officially recognized as a no contest. The Evolucao Thai product will also be suspended for nine months.

“I've never used anything and this time was no different,” Bezerra told Sherdog.com. “I already did seven fights in the UFC and always made weight; I'm totally professional upon that. I've trained hard and even being hurt I kept my weight under control. I’m going to ask for a second test, and, as always, I'm available in case UFC wants to do any other tests on me. I'm already talking with my doctors, my team and nutritionist.”

While hydrochlorothiazide is not classified as a performance-enhancing drug by the World Anti-Doping Agency, WADA considers it a “specified substance” due to its ability to mask the presence of PEDs.

All of the other fighters that participated on May 30’s card tested clean.

Editor's Note: This item was updated at 1:58 p.m. ET to include a comment from Bezerra, and again at 5:51 p.m. ET to correct information regarding the Brazilian's fight camp affiliation.