Fighter Who Once Defeated Alex Pereira Faces Tough Suspension Before Making UFC Debut

Brazilian fighter Quemuel Ottoni, who famously defeated the future UFC Champion Alex Pereria early in his career, has been slapped with an 18-month suspension after being tested positive for the banned substance clomiphene.  The fighter raised eyebrows back in September by withdrawing from a scheduled fight on the Dana White Contender Series against Kody Steele. He withdrew moments before walking to the cage and reasoned his decision by stating that he no longer wanted to compete.

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Quemuel Ottoni Suffers 18-month Ban

On Tuesday, the commission approved a default judgment against Ottoni after he failed to answer repeated inquiries about the failed drug test and probable punishment. As a result, Ottoni was suspended for 18 months and will be eligible to compete again after March 10, 2026.

Ottoni escaped a fine since he did not fight that night, but he still owes $471.12 in attorney fees, which must be paid before he can re-apply for his Nevada license. If Ottoni returns to participate in the state, he must also provide clean drug tests 30 days, 15 days, and 3 days before the competition. 

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Dana White Expresses Thoughts

UFC CEO Dana White expressed his thoughts on Quemuel Ottoni after he pulled out of the scheduled fight. The UFC boss gave Ottoni a reality check.

“That’s what this show is all about,” White said. “Sometimes you don’t have to actually get in the cage to realize, ‘This isn’t for me. I can’t handle the pressure. I don’t want to do this.’ This is what this is all about.”

Ottoni cited "anxiety crisis" as the reason for withdrawing from the bout. However, he will now face sanctions for using a banned substance, and the UFC will not consider him for future appearances.