PFL athlete Jay Jay Wilson has received a three-month suspension after testing positive for the anabolic steroid metenolone.

The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) found that the infraction occurred because Wilson accidentally consumed the substance from a vape pen that was shared.

Incident Summary

On April 1, 2024, during a period of out-of-competition testing, Wilson’s sample tested positive for metenolone, an anabolic substance that is prohibited. A follow-up investigation by USADA uncovered that Wilson had shared a vape pen with someone who had ingested metenolone shortly before using it.

This exchange resulted in the contamination of the vape pen, leading to small quantities of the steroid entering Wilson’s body.

USADA’s Investigation and Findings

Wilson fully engaged with USADA during the investigation, supplying comprehensive descriptions of the event. To validate his claims, USADA worked with an independent laboratory that is accredited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to carry out an extensive study.

The analysis confirmed that the oral fluid transmission of metenolone via shared devices like vape pens is scientifically feasible. Considering the supporting evidence and the unintentional nature of the ingestion, USADA decided on a reduced suspension duration of three months, which is substantially shorter than the typical penalty for such infractions.

Repercussions for Wilson’s Career

The suspension was applied retroactively, starting from the date the sample was collected on April 1, 2024, and ending on July 1, 2024. This schedule shows that Wilson has completed his suspension and can now return to compete without delay.

His most recent fight took place in September 2023, before the PFL took over Bellator, where he had previously fought. With the suspension now in the past, Wilson is ready to make his comeback in the PFL for the 2025 season, with the goal of reclaiming his status in the lightweight division.

Lessons and Precautions

This event highlights the vital necessity for athletes to be cautious with shared items. Minor actions, like passing around a vape pen, can result in unintended breaches of anti-doping rules.

Athletes are highly encouraged to refrain from sharing personal belongings and to keep a tight grip on everything they consume or inhale to avoid accidental contamination.

In summary, although Jay Jay Wilson’s positive drug test for a prohibited substance was inadvertent, it serves as a powerful reminder of the rigorous nature of anti-doping regulations and the unexpected ways violations can happen.

As Wilson makes his return to the PFL, this experience will likely shape his approach to training and personal behavior, underscoring the need for awareness in every facet of his professional life.