As 2025 concludes, the UFC has completed its annual drug testing cycle, marking the second full year of its independent testing program since concluding its partnership with USADA (United States Anti-Doping Agency). This year saw several high-profile athletes rejoin the testing pool ahead of anticipated returns.
One notable inclusion was former UFC double champion Conor McGregor, who once again announced his return to action, targeting the highly anticipated UFC White House event.
Merab Dvalishvili Tops the Annual Testing Counts
Merab Dvalishvili tops the list for 2025 testing sessions. The Georgian fighter, who maintained an astonishing level of activity by competing four times, underwent 14 test sessions throughout the year, despite losing his title in the year`s final pay-per-view event.
Following closely is top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan, who recorded 12 test sessions in 2025, despite having competed only once. Tsarukyan, dubbed ‘Ahalkalakets,’ was notably passed over for an interim lightweight title shot, with Dana White insisting the Armenian must re-earn his opportunity.
Conor McGregor, who re-entered the testing program mid-year ahead of his highly anticipated comeback, completed seven test sessions. Other champions also saw significant testing activity: UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev registered nine sessions, while his rival Ilia Topuria was tested seven times, having competed just once this year.
Jon Jones Registers Sessions Ahead of Planned Comeback
Former UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones, who had initially announced his retirement from the sport after rejecting a unification fight against Tom Aspinall, also re-entered the testing pool.
After petitioning Dana White to be included in the planned White House event, Jones registered four test sessions in 2025. This total is one fewer than the number of sessions he registered during the previous year when he was actively preparing for a November fight.
