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UFC's Li Jingliang cleared by USADA after failed drug test

Stephen R. Sylvanie / USA TODAY Sports

UFC welterweight Li Jingliang has been spared any and all penance by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA).

Jingliang showed trace amounts of clenbuterol in a test taken before his victory over Anton Zafir in July. After further investigation, USADA has confirmed "The Leech" won't face any sanctions, as the substance was likely unknowingly ingested via tainted animal proteins.

The China native is not the first fighter to be flagged for clenbuterol. In early August, fellow countryman and UFC bantamweight Ning Guangyou was reported to have tested positive for the substance in an out-of-competition test taken in May. The substance was determined to have similarly entered his system, clearing him of any wrongdoing.

The Nevada State Athletic Commission can issue sanctions of their own against Jingliang if they see fit.

- With h/t to MMAjunkie

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