In a candid admission, IBJJF World Champion Yatan Bueno has revealed that he was suspended by USADA after testing positive for Nandrolone. The suspension came after a failed test at the World Cup, and in a video statement, Bueno opened up about the circumstances that led him to make a difficult choice regarding his health and competitive career. He had been dealing with a chronic shoulder injury, which worsened during the Pan American Championship when his shoulder dislocated multiple times. The injury had plagued him since his purple belt days, and with the World Cup rapidly approaching, he turned to various treatments like ozone therapy and physiotherapy in hopes of being ready to compete.
Unfortunately, when these methods failed to provide sufficient relief, Bueno opted for a “deca application,” a steroid injection administered by his doctor to manage the pain in his shoulder. Though fully aware of the risks associated with the decision, he explained that the intense pressure to perform at his best drove him to take this course of action. Bueno acknowledged the difficult reality that many athletes face, pushing their bodies to the brink in pursuit of their dreams. He expressed regret for his actions, admitting he “fell into doping” and accepted the suspension.
Deca-Durabolin, also known as Nandrolone, is an anabolic steroid often used in medical settings to treat conditions like anemia and osteoporosis. However, it is not designed to heal injuries, despite some claims that it can alleviate joint pain through its water-retention properties. The relief it provides is temporary and does not address the underlying damage, leaving the injury unresolved.
Despite the suspension, Bueno reassured his supporters that he remains determined to continue fighting and moving forward, both for himself and his family. He recognized that while some may continue to stand by him, others may criticize his actions. Nonetheless, he expressed gratitude for the support he has received and vowed to persevere through this challenging time. Bueno did not disclose the length of his suspension or its impact on his future in competitive jiu-jitsu, and USADA has yet to issue an official statement on the matter, as they typically wait until a final settlement is reached.
Yatan Bueno has built a reputation as one of the top ultra-heavyweight athletes of his generation. A black belt under Fernando “Boi” Marques and Ubiratam dos Santos (Jacaré), he has represented the Dream Art Project and later Team Fratres on the international jiu-jitsu circuit. His rise to prominence began during his colored belt career, with standout victories over athletes like Victor Hugo at the CBJJE World Championships and AJP Goiania Pro. Bueno solidified his reputation in the professional division with multiple World and Pan American titles.
View this post on Instagram
Sloth Jiu-Jitsu: you can be slow and unathletic and still kick butt in Jiu-Jitsu.
