PFL heavyweight Daniel James has been given a 10-month suspension by the United States Anti-Doping Agency following a failed drug test.
James was suspended in accordance with the PFL’s anti-doping policy, which is overseen by USADA.
USADA officials stated, “James, 42, tested positive for bis-(4-cyanophenyl) methanol, a metabolite of letrozole, from an out-of-competition sample taken on May 8, 2024. Letrozole is a Specified Substance in the category of Hormone and Metabolic Modulators, with a maximum 12-month period of ineligibility, and is prohibited at all times under the PFL Anti-Doping Policy and PFL Prohibited List.
“James was granted a reduction to the standard period of ineligibility for his full cooperation. His 10-month suspension began on May 8, 2024, the date of his positive sample collection.”
Letrozole is primarily used as an estrogen blocker for treating breast cancer in women, but it can also be used to mitigate side effects from anabolic steroid misuse.
This is not James’ first encounter with suspension due to a positive drug test. He was removed from his Bellator debut in 2022 after failing an out-of-competition drug test prior to the fight. Additionally, his victory over Tyrell Fortune was changed to a no-contest following another failed drug test for an anabolic agent.
This recent incident marks James’ third failed drug test within the last two years.
James’ last PFL appearance was in April, where he secured a first-round victory over Marcelo Golm. The outcome of that fight remains unchanged as James’ failed drug test was from an out-of-competition sample collected just over a month later.
Due to the 10-month suspension, James will not be eligible to compete until after March 8, 2025.