Yes, UFC veteran Robbie Lawler confirms he is still occasionally subject to drug testing.
However, the soon-to-be two-time UFC Hall of Famer states this is the only connection he has to a potential return to fighting.
Appearing on the Pound 4 Pound podcast, the 43-year-old Lawler was questioned about remaining in the UFC`s anti-doping program after retiring in 2023 and whether it signaled comeback plans. Lawler, who trains regularly at Kill Cliff FC in Florida, clarified that the tests are just a procedural matter.
Lawler explained that a recent test occurred when many people were at the gym, leading to the news spreading. He pointed out he had also been tested in previous months, confirming his continued presence in the testing pool.
“But I`m retired. I am in the pool,” he emphasized.
This clarification will likely please fans of Lawler, the former UFC welterweight champion who fought 25 times for the promotion over 21 years in two stints. He concluded his career with a memorable 38-second knockout victory over Niko Price at UFC 290 in July 2023.
He admitted that the decision to retire wasn`t easy, but stressed that it was ultimately his choice alone.
Reflecting on his retirement, Lawler stated, “It was all on me. No one can tell me what to do, it`s just how I am. It was just like no one can tell me, I have to frickin` decide, don`t nudge me in any direction because I`m going to fight it.” He added that the physical demands, including recovery and the work needed to train at a high level, made the decision difficult.
He felt continuing would be “even more selfish” due to the increased effort required for training and recovery compared to his younger days. “When you don`t really want to put all that work into doing it at a certain level, then it`s…”
Lawler is scheduled for a second induction into the UFC Hall of Fame on June 26 during International Fight Week. His first induction was into the Fight Wing with Rory MacDonald for their memorable championship fight at UFC 189. This time, he enters the Modern Wing, recognizing his overall career achievements.
Known for his stoic demeanor, Lawler permitted himself to fully experience the moment when his second induction was announced at UFC 313 in March, particularly while a tribute video played.
Reflecting on the announcement, Lawler said, “I definitely enjoyed everything, but what I will say is I never allowed myself until right there at the end when all those kind words, all coming at one time on there.” He noted that seeing a compilation of his career highlights within minutes was overwhelming. “To have it, like, oh shit, and then the flash of my career all in, like, a three-minute span, it was a lot to handle. It definitely got me.”
