Jim Miller criticizes Donald Cerrone’s comeback amid Steroid use controversy

Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone’s announcement of a potential MMA comeback has stirred significant debate. While fans still admire Cerrone’s MMA legacy, his return after openly admitting to using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) during retirement raises serious ethical questions. Jim Miller, Cerrone’s final opponent before retirement, weighed in, expressing concerns about the circumstances surrounding Cerrone’s comeback.

Cerrone’s Decline and Steroid Admission

During his prime, Donald Cerrone was one of the most beloved and exciting fighters in MMA. However, his career ended on a disappointing note with an 0-6 record and one no-contest in his last seven fights. These included four knockout losses, raising questions about his physical durability.

After retiring, Cerrone admitted to taking steroids, declaring that he “felt like [he was] 20 again” thanks to using substances he was no longer prohibited from under UFC’s anti-doping policies. While some fans praised his honesty, others criticized him for potentially gaining an advantage during his hiatus before considering a return.

Jim Miller Raises Ethical Concerns

Veteran fighter Jim Miller, who fought Cerrone in his final bout, addressed the situation diplomatically but candidly. While respecting Cerrone’s right to decide his own path, Miller admitted he’s uncomfortable with this particular comeback.

“I have a tough time telling other grown men what to do,” Miller said. “But the fact that [Cerrone] was very open with his use of performance enhancers and the way the majority of his last fights went… I’m not super into it, to be 100 percent honest.”

Miller highlighted that while testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) or steroids may aid recovery, they can’t undo the years of physical damage Cerrone endured during his lengthy career.

Exploiting Loopholes in Anti-Doping Policies

Miller’s primary objection lies in the potential exploitation of anti-doping systems. UFC’s rules require retired fighters to undergo six months of testing before competing again. While this policy aims to prevent fighters from gaining an unfair advantage, it may fall short when someone has used banned substances for years before re-entering the testing pool.

“Using banned substances for three years, then testing clean for six months doesn’t sit right with me,” Miller stated. He believes this practice could undermine the credibility of anti-doping programs and create an uneven playing field for fighters.

Challenges of Returning at 42

Cerrone’s comeback also raises concerns about age and inactivity. The former lightweight contender will turn 42 in March 2025 and will have been out of competition for three years by the time he fights again. While Cerrone claims to feel rejuvenated, skeptics, including Miller, question whether his body can endure the rigors of high-level competition after absorbing significant damage in his final bouts.

Ultimately, Cerrone’s return to MMA will test not only his physical readiness but also the trust fans place in the sport’s integrity. As the debate unfolds, it’s clear that his comeback is as controversial as it is compelling.