Kevin Lee issues apology after NAC suspension for positive drug test, opens up about adult ADHD
UFC welterweight Kevin Lee has been temporarily suspended by the Nevada Athletic Commission (NAC) and is facing the music head-on.
On Wednesday, the NAC announced Lee (18-7 MMA, 11-7 UFC) is temporarily suspended after a positive drug test for amphetamine stemming from his Aug. 28 loss to Daniel Rodriguez in Las Vegas.
Although the topic was tabled until a further meeting with no decision being made on sanctions, Lee took to Instagram hours after the commission’s monthly meeting to shed light on the positive test. The multi-time UFC headliner revealed he’s been managing adult ADHD through medication, which he points to for the positive test. He also apologized for not disclosing his usage to the NAC.
“I have tested over the limit allowed by the Nevada State Athletic Commission in my most recent fight,” Lee wrote. “In 2018 I was diagnosed with Adult ADHD, it has always affected me. I did not discover real treatment for the diagnosis until 2020 when I was recovering from my double knee surgeries. I was prescribed Adderall from a doctor to improve my mental health. I told representatives from USADA but did not apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption from the NSAC before my last fight. For that, I truly apologize to the UFC, the commission, my opponent, Dana White, the matchmakers, Sean Shelby and Mick Maynard, and the fans.
“It was never my intention to gain an athletic advantage. It was an attempt to conquer the severe anxiety I silently suffer from daily. I am actively cooperating with the Nevada Athletic Commission and expect to reach an agreement on a sanction. I will use this time to heal and come back stronger. Sorry for my lack of professionalism that lead to this disappointment, I’ll be back.”
Lee, 29, has lost four of his most recent five outings as he bounced between lightweight and welterweight in recent fights. It is unclear which weight class he will make his return at, but he’ll have to be cleared by the NAC before he does so.
In the coming weeks, Lee and his representatives will hash things out with the NAC. Once a deal is reached, the topic will be brought up once again at a monthly NAC meeting, in which disciplinary actions including a suspension and/or fine would be handed out, should that be the verdict.
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