Finkelstein responds to Kirill's steroid questions and ties to Fedor
http://www.sports.ru/boxing/mma/7166867.htmlCan you confirm the info regarding Sidelnkikov's disqualification?
Yes, we were informed by a representative from the California State Athletic Commission that Sidelnikov did not pass the steroid test and that they found Stanosol in his body. I talked to Kirill, and he denies that he is guilty. I am dumbfounded right now... And the results came in so late for some reason, with more than a month after the event... Kirill will be punished either way, but I'm almost sure that the banned substance got into his organism without his knowledge or participation.
In what way and when?
Most likely, Kirill took some substances and did not know, what components they're made of. Perhaps, he took some unfamiliar recovering substances, without hormones. Also, his nose bridge is damaged, he constantly takes some nose drops, to be able to breathe normally. Often times he takes those drops. Maybe that's somehow connected. In any case we will be doing our own investigation. Right now I asked Kirill and his trainers to recall, and gather all the supplements that he took in the recent months, to find out where the roots of this are coming from. Then we will be able to give the official answer to the Americans.
What sanctions is Kirill facing?
Seems like it will be a disqualification for a year, but only for the events in the USA territory.
Sidelnikov is a young athlete, do you think he will be able to handle this news psychologically?
Yes, I'm sure. And besides, this is not an absolute disqualification. He can compete in Russia and Europe. Only in USA there is such a strict control. Seems like he will have no breaks in his career. Of course it's very sad that he just debuted on such high level, Kirill will have to take a step back. Besides, this is also a stain on the reputation of the club, and all Russian fighters.
Is consumption of banned substances a widespread practice in MMA?
Americans, Dutch live on this, they have developed technologies. We are living on our herbs. Guys are sharing something amongst each other; give each other advices; but now we got a precedent. The story with Sidelnikov shows that there is a giant mess in this field. We are now going to implement a strong and strict control. Each fighter will sign a document, that he is forbidden to take any substances without the knowledge of his trainer, even if it's harmless medical drug from running nose or a cold. Otherwise we will be firing from the club immediately.
It is known that Kirill is a constant sparring partner of Fedor Emelianenko, some say a protege. They train together, and communicate all the time. A big shadow can now fall on Fedor's reputation now...
I don't think so. On the contrary, Emelianenko often warns everyone, including Kirill, not to touch any unkown substances. He sometimes advises himself what is the best to take in order to "clean" your body. Besides, Fedor participated in the same event as Kirill, he went through the same testing, that did not show anything.