The United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) considers Paulo Costa to be a marked man. The lingering question is if the mastermind behind the “secret juice” supplement line is indeed all-natural, or if this scrutiny is a reaction to previous weigh-in controversies that pitted USADA against UFC CEO Dana White.

Paulo Costa, at the age of 32, has always been a subject of suspicion within the combat sports community. His herculean physique, carved out of sheer dedication and relentless training, has led many to question the authenticity of his gains. This skepticism has even prompted clashes with USADA in the past, adding fuel to the fire of speculation.

Despite the doubts surrounding him, Costa has managed to silence his critics by passing all 33 drug tests administered to him in 2023. This exceptional record speaks volumes about his commitment to competing cleanly and within the bounds of regulations. It is a testament to his determination and serves as a rebuttal to those who questioned his legitimacy.

USADA Updated their testing pool today. Here's the top tested athletes of 2023. Paulo Costa is a marked man ahead of his return vs Khamzat Chimaev this month. pic.twitter.com/2XnE0Xho1k

— Andy Hickey MMA (@AndyHickeyMMA) October 6, 2023

But the story goes on, and the stakes are about to rise. The MMA community will witness a clash of epic proportions in just a few weeks. The co-main event of UFC 294 will see P. Costa take on former welterweight bruiser Khamzat Chimaev.

This fight offers the chance to earn a shot at the coveted middleweight title; it’s more than just a contest of strength. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 24, 2023, at Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates’ famed Etihad Arena.