Arslan Ash Addresses Recent Ban

Following a shocking ban from the International Esports Federation (IESF) who alleged that Evo winner, Arslan Ash, had violated anti-doping rules, the champion has released a lengthy statement to explain the situation. 

Arslan Ash was said to have violated anti‑doping rules under the WADA Code (World Anti-Doping Agency) and had been sanctioned with a two-year period of ineligibility. Another organization, the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC), stated that the ban would not be enforced as the drug in question is prohibited for use in traditional sports and so far, not for fighting games. 

Ash released a statement on his social media where he explained that he used the drug after being deceived by a trainer at a local gym in his hometown of Pakistan. He explained that he simply wanted to be more fit and took the drugs under the understanding that they were simply supplements rather than banned substances. He was made aware of his error in 2022 and he stopped taking the substance.  

His organization, Twisted Minds, also released a statement in which they backed the player and even questioned the timing of the release of their verdict— two and a half years after the incident. 

They say they are committed to continuing to work with the world champion and would like him to focus on the challenges ahead.