Hajra Naz
Tekken legend Arslan Ash has addressed a doping sanction issued by the International Esports Federation (IESF), saying he unknowingly consumed banned substances and never intended to gain a competitive edge.
In June, the IESF revealed that Ash had tested positive for anabolic steroids following his win at the 2022 World Esports Championship (WEC22) in Tekken 7. Substances detected included 19-norandrosterone and stanozolol metabolites, both banned by the World Anti-Doping Association (WADA), whose list the IESF follows.
As a result, Arslan Ash received a two-year ban from IESF-sanctioned events, retroactively applied from April 26, 2023, to April 25, 2025. He was also stripped of all titles, points, prize money, and awards earned between December 10, 2022, and the start of the ban—including his WEC22 championship.
“I Was Misled,” Says Arslan Ash
Speaking to ProPakistani, Ash stated that he was unaware the supplements he had taken contained banned substances or were prohibited in esports.
“I wasn’t aware these drugs were banned in esports,” he said. “I was never using them for any kind of advantage in gaming.”
Ash explained that he bought the substances in 2022 from a trainer at a gym in Pakistan, without knowing their exact nature.
“I was misled and unfortunately became a victim of a gym culture where substances like these are sold casually, with zero guidance or education,” he wrote on social media.
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He confirmed he stopped using the supplements once he learned what they contained and has since committed to educating himself.
“I’ve joined a better gym, taken full responsibility, and educated myself to ensure this never happens again.”
Backlash Against the Sanction
The IESF reiterated its zero-tolerance policy and commitment to WADA testing standards. However, the ruling has faced significant pushback.
Critics questioned both the timing of the sanction—issued over two years after the competition—and the relevance of steroid testing in a game like Tekken, where physical strength plays no role.
The Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC) also declined to enforce the IESF’s decision, calling the framework scientifically unfit for esports.
“Without a scientifically grounded and purpose-built approach to anti-doping in esports, serious consequences to competitive integrity are inevitable,” ESIC stated.
Legacy Intact
Despite the controversy, Ash’s greatest achievements remain intact. His Tekken World Tour 2023 victory, five EVO titles, and his historic 2019 double win at EVO Japan and EVO Las Vegas are still recognized by tournament organizers.
His team, Twisted Minds, stood by him, calling the IESF’s policy “outdated” and unfit for competitive gaming.
“Arslan’s career has always been built on skill, passion, and relentless work,” the team said in a statement.
Arslan Ash continues to be celebrated as one of the most decorated and influential players in Tekken esports history.
