There’s a lot of confusion surrounding Paulo Costa’s sudden withdrawal from his highly anticipated bout with Yoel Romero earlier this month.
The Brazilian middleweight prospect claims he was pulled from UFC on ESPN 3 by the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC) due to his use of a stomach medication from 2017, but the NYSAC says they only fined the 28-year-old.
“Evidence received and reviewed by the Commission conclusively showed that Mr. Costa failed to comply with Commission rules and policies regarding the use and disclosure of non-performance enhancing substances while licensed. The Commission shall have the authority to inquire into the affairs of licensees, permit holders and other authorized persons or entities, and into any matter which may affect combative sports or professional wrestling in New York in its discretion and without limitations.