MLB speaks with Dodgers doctor about role in Conor McGregor’s alleged PED use
Major League Baseball has initiated discussions with Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ team physician, following reports that he referred UFC fighter Conor McGregor to a specialist who prescribed performance-enhancing drugs. While the league is seeking information regarding the physician’s role in McGregor’s recovery, an anonymous source stated that the inquiry does not constitute an official investigation.
Dr. ElAttrache’s Involvement and Response
The situation surfaced after reports indicated that Dr. ElAttrache, who also serves as the Los Angeles Rams’ team doctor, wrote a letter supporting McGregor’s request for an exemption from UFC drug policies. This followed surgery performed by ElAttrache on McGregor’s lower left leg after a 2021 injury. According to reports, McGregor was removed from the UFC drug testing pool but did not receive the requested exemption, yet allegedly utilized the prescribed drugs while not subject to testing.
Dr. ElAttrache released a statement affirming he did not work with the specialist McGregor visited, nor did he prescribe any banned substances himself. “I am very comfortable with the process that the league and I will complete to assure the public that I have followed every rule and regulation in my medical treatment of athletes without exception,” ElAttrache stated. He noted that his professional record remains clean.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache is a prominent orthopedic surgeon who has treated numerous high-profile athletes over the last 35 years, including performing surgeries for Shohei Ohtani, Kobe Bryant, Aaron Rodgers, and Tom Brady.
Potential Implications for Professional Sports
While Major League Baseball has not received any allegations of wrongdoing by Dr. ElAttrache regarding his work within baseball, the league’s interest highlights the intersection of medical advocacy and strict anti-doping regulations. Because Dr. ElAttrache holds significant medical roles across multiple leagues—including the Dodgers, Rams, and consulting roles with the Lakers, Kings, and Ducks—any findings could theoretically influence how teams oversee medical referrals and policy exemptions.
The involvement of a high-profile team physician in an athlete’s external medical referrals underscores the complex balance between patient advocacy and the rigorous compliance standards required by professional sports leagues. As leagues increasingly monitor the medical networks surrounding their players, the outcome of these discussions may set a precedent for how medical practitioners navigate cross-sport regulatory environments.
What Happens Next?
A possible next step involves the completion of the information-gathering process between Dr. ElAttrache and Major League Baseball. As the league has stated it is not currently conducting an official investigation, the matter may conclude once officials are satisfied with the details provided regarding the physician’s involvement. The Dodgers organization has declined to comment, and the NFL has not returned requests for information regarding the matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Dr. ElAttrache prescribe banned substances to Conor McGregor?
No. According to statements provided to the media, Dr. ElAttrache stated he did not prescribe banned medication himself.
Is Major League Baseball officially investigating Dr. ElAttrache?
An anonymous MLB source stated that the league is looking to learn more about the physician’s participation but that the process is not an official investigation.
What was the purpose of the letter Dr. ElAttrache wrote for McGregor?
The letter was written to support McGregor’s request for an exemption from certain UFC drug policies following his 2021 leg surgery.
How should professional leagues balance a doctor’s duty to patient care with the need for strict, league-wide anti-doping compliance?