USADA announced the sanction in a statement on Wednesday. Nicolau tested positive for anastrozole, which is listed in the category of hormone and metabolic modulators and is prohibited according to WADA code. Nicolau’s suspension is retroactive to the date of his positive test, meaning he will be able to return to active competition on Oct. 14, 2017.
While anastrozole is primarily used to help treat breast cancer, it can also help to maximize the effect testosterone on the body while limiting the amount of estrogen secreted.
The 24-year-old UFC flyweight was scheduled to face Yuta Sasaki at UFC Fight Night 100 in Sao Paul this past November but was pulled from the card after the failed drug test was revealed approximately two weeks before the fight.
Nicolau began his Octagon tenure with consecutive triumphs over Bruno Rodrigues Mesquita and former title challenger John Moraga. He owns a 12-1-1 career mark overall.