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With the conversation around TRT becoming more heated recently in regards to Vitor Belfort, we asked MMATorch readers on Monday whether his use in particular bothers them more than other fighters on the treatment, or whether it's just TRT use in general they have a problem with. Here's the first batch of responses:
Matthew M. (via Facebook): Yes it bothers me across the board, and no one more so then Vitor. The man got caught for using steroids, which is proven to hinder natural testosterone production! He made a mistake in the past now his levels aren't normal so he needs to be a man and deal with it! So tell me this, in what planet does a man get rewarded with an advantage for making a mistake in the past and not dealing with the consequences. Oh, wait, the UFC world. Where marajuana is the devil's blood but TRT is God's nectar. Most fighters hate it, fans hate it, MMA media hates it. Bottom line: get rid of that s***! Remember though, the fault lies in the commissions and not so much the UFC.
MMATorch Forum User Lukesanden: It's a travesty to the sport all around. Hang up the gloves if you can't hang with the big boys. I'll absolutely never understand how marijuana is a banned substance even if you have the OK from the doctor and it's legal, yet elevated testosterone levels are just fine if you get the OK from a doctor. The commissions might be the ones that need to get tested for marijuana use.
Simon L. (via Facebook): Don't allow TRT. It's that simple. Strange how all these fighters under 40 suddenly need it when in normal circumstances it effects 30% of the male population between 40 and 79. And if you've brought a lower rate in testosterone upon yourself from using steroids you should in no way be allowed to take anything that gives you normal readings. It's your fault you have a low reading!
MMATorch Forum User Jmarine03: Yes, it bothers me more. Belfort has a history of positive tests, which to me would explain why he would have low testosterone. That, coupled with the fact that he only fights in Brazil which gives the illusion that the UFC is avoiding an athletic commission, makes Belfort's use bother me more than others.
MMATorch Forum User Bobbysuperfly: It was just such an odd feeling listening to his post-fight interviews, from the post-fight show on Fuel with the analysts to the post-fight press conference. With all the comments about Belfort getting better and better, being in amazing shape, getting better with age, being so strong, being like a fine wine, etc. His TRT was all I could think about throughout all of this. It was like the big elephant in the room.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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