Jim Miller shares concerns over cowboy Cerrone’s comeback and Steroid use in combat sports

The mixed reactions surrounding Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone’s potential comeback to MMA have sparked significant discussions in the combat sports community. While Cerrone is remembered as a fan favorite during his peak years, his return has raised eyebrows—especially due to his open admission of using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) after retirement. Jim Miller, Cerrone’s final opponent before his retirement, shared his concerns about the situation, particularly regarding steroid use and other banned substances. In this article, we break down the context behind Cerrone’s comeback, Miller’s concerns, and what it means for the MMA community.

Cerrone’s Controversial Comeback

Donald Cerrone made his name in the UFC with thrilling performances, earning a reputation as one of the most beloved and action-packed fighters in MMA. However, toward the end of his career, Cerrone went through a tough streak, finishing 0-6 with one no contest in his last seven fights. After these disappointing results, Cerrone announced his retirement, but his exit wasn’t without controversy.

Following his retirement, Cerrone openly admitted to using steroids. He confessed that, once he was no longer bound by the UFC’s anti-doping policies, he started using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and other substances. Cerrone even claimed that the substances made him feel like “I’m f*cking 20 again.” Despite the fact that these substances are typically banned in professional MMA, Cerrone has been open about their use.

Now, with his 42nd birthday approaching in March 2025, Cerrone is considering a comeback to the UFC. This potential return has sparked mixed reactions from fans and fellow fighters. Many are questioning whether returning to the octagon is the right decision for Cerrone, especially considering his age and the physical toll his long career has taken on him.

Jim Miller’s Perspective on Cerrone’s Steroid Use

Jim Miller, a UFC veteran and Cerrone’s final opponent, has expressed his concerns about the situation. While Miller made it clear that he would never tell another grown man what to do, he admitted that he isn’t fond of Cerrone’s approach. In an interview with MMA Fighting, Miller shared his discomfort with Cerrone’s open use of PEDs.

Miller explained, “I don’t really believe in telling other people what to do,” but he also voiced his unease about Cerrone’s steroid use. He pointed out that Cerrone’s performance in his last few fights, which included multiple knockouts and a submission loss, might not have been solely due to a lack of physical healing but possibly linked to his use of banned substances. According to Miller, even though Cerrone was allowed to take TRT after retiring, the damage from his previous fights may not be healed just by hormone replacement therapy.

The Dilemma of Banned Substances in Post-Retirement Comebacks

Cerrone’s situation is not unique. It’s not uncommon for retired fighters to consider making a return to the cage after some time away. However, the issue of performance-enhancing drugs complicates this decision. While fighters can use hormone replacement therapy post-retirement, concerns arise over how this could affect the integrity of competition. When fighters use PEDs after retirement to circumvent the anti-doping policies, it raises ethical questions about fairness in the sport.

For Jim Miller, the issue isn’t just about Cerrone’s return to MMA; it’s about the potential for fighters to exploit the system. Miller is not alone in expressing concerns. Many critics argue that using PEDs after retirement can give fighters an unfair advantage once they are cleared to compete again, compromising the competitive nature of the sport.

The Future of Cerrone’s MMA Career

As Cerrone moves closer to his planned comeback, the question remains: Can he regain the form that made him a top contender in the UFC? The potential for further damage to his body, combined with the use of performance-enhancing substances, will be key factors in how fans and analysts view his return. For now, it remains to be seen how Cerrone’s comeback will play out, but one thing is clear: his decision to use steroids after retirement has sparked significant debate within the MMA community, especially from fighters like Jim Miller.

Whether Cerrone’s comeback is successful or not, his story highlights the complex intersection of age, health, and fairness in combat sports.