-
Andreas Hale
2025 PFL featherweight champion Movlid Khaybulaev has tested positive for a banned substance and will be suspended for one year, the PFL announced Wednesday.
Khaybulaev, who also won the tournament in 2021, defeated Jesus Pinedo by fifth-round submission in the tournament final Aug. 1. However, his in-competition sample came back positive for the banned substance recombinant erythropoietin the same day he defeated Pinedo at Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
The suspension will be retroactive to his positive test date.
The PFL and USADA ended their antidoping relationship recently, but the test took place in the final days of their partnership. PFL now works with the Mohegan Sun Tribe Department of Athletic Regulation to oversee its drug testing program.
“Pursuant to PFL rules and regulations, Khaybulaev has been disqualified from the 2025 PFL World Tournament,” the PFL said in a statement. “As a result of the disqualification under PFL rules, Khaybulaev forfeits the distinction of 2025 PFL featherweight tournament champion, the championship belt and all associated bonus awards.”