As 2025 concluded, the UFC wrapped up its second year of utilizing its proprietary drug-testing program, following the termination of its partnership with USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency).
The year saw several major figures re-enter the testing pool, notably former UFC double champion Conor McGregor, who announced his return and set his sights on the highly anticipated UFC White House event.
Merab Dvalishvili Tops the List as the Most-Tested Athlete in 2025
Merab Dvalishvili was arguably the most active fighter in 2025. Despite his status as a top contender, his impressive activity led the Georgian fighter to finish the year as the promotion’s most-tested athlete, undergoing 14 test sessions over the 12-month period.
Closely following Dvalishvili is the lightweight number one contender, Arman Tsarukyan. Tsarukyan registered 12 test sessions in 2025, even though he only competed once. `Ahalkalakets` ended the year in controversy after being overlooked for an interim lightweight title shot, with Dana White insisting the Armenian still needs to re-earn his opportunity.
After his announcement, Conor McGregor rejoined the testing pool mid-year and accumulated seven test sessions. Other high-profile athletes included UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, who underwent nine test sessions in 2025. Makhachev’s close rival, Ilia Topuria, was tested seven times, having competed only once during the period.
Jon Jones Registers Tests Following Comeback Talk
Former UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones had previously announced his retirement earlier in the year after declining a unification bout against Tom Aspinall. However, following the announcement of a planned event at the White House, Jones publicly requested inclusion on the card.
To signal his commitment, Jones re-entered the testing pool and recorded four test sessions in 2025, one fewer than he registered the previous year, when he competed in November.
