LAS VEGAS — Justin Jaynes, a 36-year-old MMA fighter from Michigan, faces an 18-month ban from competition after testing positive for a cocaine metabolite following his October 2025 victory at Tuff-N-Uff 149.

The Nevada Athletic Commission approved the suspension this week. Jaynes beat Marlon Gonzales by unanimous decision that night. His post-fight test detected benzoylecgonine, prompting the penalty.

Under the agreement, Jaynes cannot fight until April 2027. The commission fined him $200 — 40% of his purse — plus a $250.60 prosecution fee. Officials noted this marks his third anti-doping violation.

Commission chairman Dallas Haun pushed for harsh future consequences. “I have a problem with the third drug offense,” Haun said during the hearing. “The proposed agreement is fine, but we need to add that if Mr. Jaynes comes back for any drug-related offense, then he will be barred from the state of Nevada permanently.”

Jaynes joined the UFC in 2020. He debuted with a first-round knockout of Frank Camacho in June that year. The win electrified fans. But Jaynes then dropped four straight bouts. The promotion released him after that skid.

Before the UFC, Jaynes fought in promotions like WXC. He has competed at lightweight and featherweight. His record shows resilience, but repeated drug issues now cloud his path forward.

The NAC enforces strict anti-doping rules for events in Nevada. Fighters must pass tests before and after bouts. Positive results lead to suspensions scaled by offense number. Jaynes’ case highlights the escalating penalties.

Haun’s proposal passed without dissent. Jaynes accepted the terms. He now eyes a return in 2027, provided he stays clean. Another slip would end his Nevada career for good.

Jaynes, who trains out of Michigan, has not commented publicly since the ruling. His camp could not be reached for this report. The commission posted details from the hearing on its website.

Tuff-N-Uff serves as a key feeder for the UFC. Events draw talent eager for bigger stages. Jaynes’ win there highlighted his skills — until the test results surfaced.