UFC Fighter Alibi Idiris Handed One-Year Suspension for Drug Violation; Lone Win Annulled

UFC flyweight Alibi Idiris will be absent from the Octagon until 2027 following a recent ruling regarding a drug test failure.

On Tuesday, Combat Sports Anti-Doping (CSAD), the UFC's anti-doping agency, announced a one-year suspension for Alibi Idiris due to a violation of drug-testing protocols.

Idiris, 31, tested positive for hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic and masking agent forbidden for its ability to hide other banned substances by promoting rapid fluid expulsion. The Kazakh fighter's suspension dates back to an in-competition sample collected on February 21, 2026, the same day he secured a unanimous decision victory against Ode Osbourne at UFC Houston.

According to a UFC statement, Idiris cooperated with investigators, admitting he used the substance during his weight cut. However, CSAD declined to reduce the penalty. With the ban retroactively applied, Idiris cannot compete until February 21, 2027.

CSAD emphasized that no reduction in his period of ineligibility would be granted, citing "the seriousness of knowingly using a diuretic during fight week and the advantage that he received in making his contracted weight."

In addition to the suspension, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) has nullified Idiris's win against Osbourne. As the substance is also banned under state rules, the fight's outcome has been officially changed to a no-contest.

Alibi Idiris's Path to a UFC Contract

Alibi Idiris gained prominence on Season 33 of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF), competing as a member of Team Cormier. He started his journey in February 2025 with a unanimous decision win over Furkatbek Yokubov, followed by a notable knockout victory against Roybert Echeverria in the semifinals the next month.

Idiris then advanced to the TUF 33 finale at UFC 319 last August, where he was submitted by Joseph Morales via triangle choke in the second round. Despite this loss, his performances were strong enough to secure a UFC contract, leading to his bout with Ode Osbourne.

His current professional record stands at 11-1 with one no-contest, featuring six knockout victories.