Is Hiring a Surveillance Expert the Best Way to Catch a Drug Cheater’s Wandering Eye?
When Jeff Novitzky, former FBI agent and current UFC drug testing boss, announced that George Piro, recently retired FBI Special Agent in Charge, would be overseeing UFC’s new drug testing program in conjunction with Drug Free Sport, the first question that came to mind was: is hiring a surveillance expert the best way to catch a drug cheater’s wandering eye?
Raising Eyebrows
Last week’s press conference announcing UFC’s departure from Travis Tygart and USADA in favor of hiring a well-heeled former FBI boss raised some eyebrows. The media parroted UFC’s talking points about the man who interrogated Saddam Hussein relentlessly. The sanctimonious tone from Mr. Novitzky towards anyone questioning the credentials of Mr. Piro raised alarm bells.
John Morgan tweeted, “Passionate response from Jeff Novitzky when I asked about need for independent testing.”
The Need for Independent Testing
This statement raised the question of whether independent testing is necessary in order to ensure the integrity of the drug testing program. Although UFC’s new drug testing program is being conducted in conjunction with Drug Free Sport, it is still important to consider the need for an independent testing organization to ensure fairness and accuracy.
Conclusion
Ultimately, it is up to UFC and Drug Free Sport to decide if hiring a surveillance expert is the best way to catch a drug cheater’s wandering eye. However, it is important to consider the need for independent testing in order to ensure the integrity of the drug testing program.
