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UFC Heavyweight Hit with One-Year Suspension After Failed Drug Test

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Prince Horton | Last updated Aug 15, 2025 10:04 PM ET

The heavyweight division takes another blow as a rising contender faces a one-year ban

The UFC heavyweight division has been eager to regain momentum, especially with Tom Aspinall set to defend his title against Ciryl Gane in October. It’s been some time since Jon Jones left the division in a state of uncertainty before ultimately retiring. Now, just as the weight class seemed ready to steady itself, news has emerged that one rising contender has been sidelined by a significant setback.

According to MMA Junkie, UFC heavyweight Alvin Hines has been suspended one year by the UFC’s anti-doping program, Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD).

Officials announced Friday that Hines (7-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) tested positive for anabolic steroids drostanolone and testosterone in an out-of-competition drug test on June 20, and again in subsequent tests on June 28 and July 5. CSAD determined that Hines knowingly used the prohibited substances before signing with the UFC and failed to disclose the use on his promotional onboarding form.

Despite the violation, Hines cooperated with the investigation, which reduced his sanction to a one-year suspension ending July 11, 2026. The 33-year-old made his debut at UFC 317 in June, stepping in on short notice to face Jhonata Diniz. While he lost by unanimous decision, Hines earned praise for his grit and durability.

Known as just your everyday guy,' Hines balances his fighting career with his full-time job as a heavy equipment operator for the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 49. UFC president Dana White and the promotion will look to keep the heavyweight division’s momentum going despite this latest setback.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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