Tekken pro gamer Arslan Ash, also known as Arslan Siddique, who recently received disciplinary action for doping, has stepped forward to share his personal stance.

According to an interview Arslan Siddique conducted on the 2nd with the Pakistani media outlet 'Propakistani,' the substance detected in the recent doping test was originally taken for exercise purposes during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Arslan Siddique stated, "I was unaware that the medication violated esports regulations, and it was certainly not used to enhance performance," adding, "I ceased taking the medication immediately after receiving anti-doping education."

Furthermore, Arslan Siddique remarked, "I believe that the doping test regulations employed by the International Esports Federation (IESF) are tailored for traditional athletes, and therefore do not align well with the reality of esports."

The news has left the community deeply divided. Some argue, "Since physical ability isn't the primary driver in esports, the sense of unfairness is understandable," while others counter, "Isn't it common knowledge that steroids boost reaction times? If so, surely that has a direct impact on esports as well."

The controversy surrounding Arslan Siddique erupted on the 19th when the IESF announced a violation of doping regulations. According to the IESF, the doping test conducted during a tournament on December 10, 2022, revealed the presence of 'anabolic androgenic steroids,' which fall under the S1.1A category of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list.