The ITA asserts ADRV against wrestler Khadzhimurat Gatsalov based on WADA investigations, McLaren report and LIMS data

The ITA confirms that it has asserted an ADRV against Khadzhimurat Gatsalov under Article 2.2 (Use or Attempted Use of a Prohibited Substance or a Prohibited Method) of the UWW Anti-Doping Rules (UWW ADR).

The assertion is based on investigations conducted by WADA’s Intelligence and Investigation Department (WADA I&I) and by Professor Richard McLaren into allegations of systemic doping practices in Russian sport between the years 2011 and 2015 as well as the Moscow Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) data retrieved by WADA I&I over time. The evidence was provided by WADA I&I to the ITA for further assessment. In particular, these investigations uncovered LIMS data indicative of the presence of the banned substance ipamorelin in a sample provided by the athlete in 2015. Ipamorelin is a non-specified substance that stimulates the body’s release of growth hormone, which, in turn, promotes muscle growth, fat loss, and recovery through increased endogenous growth hormone levels.

The athlete has been informed of the case and has been provisionally suspended until the resolution of the matter in line with the World Anti-Doping Code and the UWW ADR.

During the period of provisional suspension, the athlete cannot participate in any competitions (either at the national or the international level) or any other activity (such as being a coach or an official). The athlete has the right to request for a provisional hearing or a final hearing.

Pursuant to the UWW’s delegation of its anti-doping program to the ITA, the prosecution of the case is being handled entirely by the ITA. Given that the case is underway, there will be no further comments made.