Cris 'Cyborg' cleared of possible USADA violation, could fight for title next

The former Invicta champion could be back in the octagon very soon to fight for the belt

Cris “Cyborg” Justino has been cleared of her possible anti-doping violation by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, the organization announced Friday.

Cyborg, who tested positive for a banned substance in December 2016, was granted a Therapeutic Use Exemption by the Agency. Cyborg tested positive for Spironolactone, a prohibited substance in the category of Diuretics and Masking Agents according to USADA, but upon testing positive, Justino notified USADA of a drug prescribed to her by her doctor for an endocrine disorder following her last fight in September 2016.

It comes as a bit of a surprise, since it was just a week ago that UFC held its first women’s 145-pound title fight between Holly Holm and Germaine de Randamie. Cyborg said leading up to the fight UFC made that belt for her, and if everyone’s being honest, she’s the best women’s 145-pound fighter in the world.

Amid the controversial finish to Holm-de Randamie, Cyborg was in attendance and seems ready for the challenge of taking on de Randamie, but the recently crowned champ said afterward she wanted to take some time and allow an injury to heal up.

Then, this week she said she would grant Holm a rematch to clear up the controversy of de Randamie throwing punches after the bell. Holm also filed an appeal with NYSAC after losing the close decision at UFC 208.

If that’s the case, fine. But the next time Cyborg steps in the octagon, it better be for the women’s featherweight title.