The federal agent who helped bring down Lance Armstrong has been appointed as the UFC 's new Vice President of Athlete Health and Performance . Jeff Novitzky , who was also involved in the investigations into Barry Bonds , Marion Jones and Justin Gatlin , will spearhead the development of the UFC 's new drug testing programme . The organisation announced earlier this year that they will implement a new year-round , out-of-competition testing protocol following a string of high-profile failed tests by Anderson Silva , Nick Diaz and Hector Lombard . Jeff Novitsky will join the UFC as the sport bids to clean up its act after high-profile failed drugs tests . Anderson 'The Spider ' Silva ( right ) tested positive for drostanolone metabolites and androstane . Barry Bonds holds the MLB record for home runs but his achievements are tainted by allegations of PED use . 'There is no bigger advocate of clean professional sports than Jeff Novitzky , ' UFC Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Epstein said . 'When we announced our commitment for an enhanced drug testing program in February , we wanted to ensure that the best people would be helping move this program forward and Jeff will lead the UFC in developing the most comprehensive anti-doping policy in professional sports . ' Novitzky added : ' I am thrilled to be joining a world-class organization like UFC , that is committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure all of its athletes are competing in a clean sport . ' I am confident that UFC will be able to create a new gold standard testing program and implement it so a sustainable and level playing field is provided for all athletes . '
Novitzky kick-started the BALCO investigation and is well-known for his work with steroid and PED use in sport . The case involved the investigations into Barry Bonds , Marion Jones and Justin Gatlin . The federal agent also probed Lance Armstrong 's Tour de France teams and helped unmask the shamed former cyclist . In a statement to USA TODAY Sports on Friday, Novitzky's attorney said he was "disappointed" by the judge's decision. There is no bigger advocate of clean professional sports than Jeff Novitzky , ' the UFC 's Lawrence Epstein said .