UFC Flyweight Mara Romero Borella Suspended Until 2044 By Italian Anti-Doping Agency
If you thought UFC fighter Nick Diaz’s five-year suspension back in 2015 for marijuana use was too long, then check what Italian Anti-Doping Agency did to another UFC’s flyweight contender.
Mara Borella, (12-5 overall, 1-1 in UFC) last competed inside the Octagon at UFC 216 where she won by submitting Kalindra Faria in the first round.
Borella had a quite an interesting past, and it brought back to limelight again thanks to recent suspension.
Back in 2014, Mara Romero Borella suspended for 15 years by National Anti Doping Agency of Italy for trafficking of prohibited substances now this suspension is stretched until 2044 making it staggering 26 years due to ‘contravention of article 4.12.3’ which prohibits competing while already suspended.
Borella also charged with violation of ‘article eight of the same code‘ which prohibits the use of Italian sports facilities while on suspension. (Via MMA Today)
In a unique case, where Borella and her then-boyfriend at the time, Rugby player Filippo Maserati charged with distribution and sale of cannabis and cocaine after a two-year investigation which was called “Operazione Flanker“ that also includes 31 others.
Further investigation revealed that Mara and her boyfriend were also selling cocaine, cannabis to sporting venues, nightclubs, and bars. Borella was also selling drugs at her gym.
In 2012, Italian media reported that 31 defendants entered into a plea deal that involved punishment from 1-4 years in jail.
UFC isn’t obligated to follow WADA codes, so it remains unclear how this will affect her UFC career. Mara is first female Italian fighter to win the bout in the organization.
