Yoel Romero on PED cheating accusations: Cubans have incredible genetics

When Yoel Romero failed an out of competition drug test in early 2016 that led to a six-month suspension, many were quick to throw accusations at him for being a blatant cheater, even if USADA was convinced it was due to a tainted supplement. Two of the notable names that did so were former middleweight champions Michael Bisping and Chris Weidman.

Romero does have an impressive physique at 40 years of age, but according to him, it is just a product of great genetics that all Cubans naturally have. He is even willing to prove it by inviting people over to his home country for them to personally see it.

“After (the failed drug test) happened, I’ve thought many times to invite people to come to Cuba for about 20 days,” Romero told Joe Rogan during a recent episode of the JRE MMA Showpodcast. “I wanted the people (to) see because the genetics of Cubans (are off the charts). And not (just) for the athletic people, normal (people as well).”

“You need to see (all of it) with an open mind.”

Romero further argued that the use of performance-enhancing drugs, especially for athletes in Cuba will cost a lot of money, which makes it impractical.

“Do you know how much you need to pay for the steroids? Come on, man,” Romero said. “The people don’t have (the money).”

In January, Romero filed a lawsuit against supplement company Goldstar Performance Products, the manufacturer of Shred RX which he believes caused his failed drug test.