Ruslan Magomedov flagged for potential doping violation

Already out of commission for a year, Ruslan Magomedov's return could soon be shelved for much longer.

The USADA has informed the UFC's 12th-ranked heavyweight of a potential doping violation concerning an out-of-competition test taken on Sept. 7. The promotion released a statement on the matter Monday afternoon.

Magomedov, undefeated in his three UFC fights, was scheduled to end a year-long layoff against Stefan Struve at UFC 204 before developing a staph infection. The 29-year-old last beat Shawn Jordan by unanimous decision at UFC 192.

The nature of the illicit substance has not been disclosed. The violation, if confirmed, would be the first of Magomedov's still-young UFC career.