Do WWE Wrestlers Use Steroids? (The Truth Exposed)

Research has shown that steroids may cause infections and yellow eyes after a few weeks of usage [3].

The same research reveals that Angioid streaks were observed in both eyes of heavy androgenic steroid users.

Angioid streaks are abnormal, greyish lines that envelop the optic disc and extend radially outwards.

In addition, some people may experience an increase in eye pressure only an hour after using steroids [4].

Acne

Acne is another critical indicator of steroid abuse, especially in young men 18–26 years old.

Research has shown that both acne conglobata and acne fulminans occur in 50% of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) abusers [5].

Steroid users may experience severe and scarring acne all over the face and body, similar to what a male teenager experiences during puberty due to the spike in T levels.

This happens because anabolic androgenic steroids increase the amount of skin oil generated in skin pores, which causes acne [6].

Studies have indicated that anabolic-androgenic steroid misuse causes anxiety, major depression, mania, hypomania, paranoia, anger (roid rage), and suicidal tendencies [7].

One study recommends that the mood and behavioral effects seen during AAS abuse may result from secondary hormonal changes [8].

A study has also revealed that some users resort to drugs like heroin or opioids to ease some AAS adverse effects.

Most announced that they used these drugs to counteract depression, insomnia, and irritability from steroid withdrawal [9].

Deeper Voice

Studies have shown that AAS abuse causes the development of male characteristics, including a change in voice whether you are a male or a female.

The vocal folds increase in length and thicken, which causes the natural frequency of their voice to lower [10].

While the changes to the voice may be permanent, the effects of AAS on the female voice could change by receiving androgenic steroid therapy [11].

One of the most well-known side effects of AAS abuse is the development of excess body and facial hair, also known as hirsutism.

Both anabolic steroids and corticosteroids can affect women as they might experience hair growth on their body, face, and areas where it usually wouldn't grow.

They might also experience changes in texture, thinness, and the natural color of their hair which is one of the signs that someone is using steroids.

These are one of the many indicative signs that someone is using steroids.

Baldness

Most men and women who take steroids may experience hair thinning on their scalp, especially from their hairline, or complete scalp hair loss.

These changes mainly occur after a year on steroids. This differs from one person to another.

The AAS dosage and time length using steroids all contribute to the changes in scalp hair. Other factors are your family history and age.

The primary cause of hair loss has to do with the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

However, it’s important to note that these external indicators discussed above are not enough to judge whether a person is on steroids or not.

Wrestlers use anabolic steroids to increase and build lean muscle mass in noticeable ways and improve their athletic performance and appearance.

Most users claim that they began using steroids when weight training alone was no longer sufficient for them to continue getting bigger.

The Human Growth Hormone (HGH),  also known as gonadotropin, is another widely used substance. Some wrestlers stack steroids with human growth hormones to obtain a sculpted body.

However, this can cause addiction and other undesirable long-term effects, including cardiovascular complications, liver disease, reproductive organ damage, and severe mood swings [13].

“In small doses for short amounts of time, when their use is monitored by a doctor, anabolic steroids have a lower risk of harmful side effects. But using high amounts of steroids or using them for a long period can lead to numerous side effects.”

– Tim Jewell, Editor at Healthline

Are WWE Wrestlers Allowed to Take Anabolic Steroids?

No, WWE wrestlers are not allowed to take anabolic steroids, which include androstenediol, androstenedione, bolasterone, and boldenone.

They must pass drug tests in order to participate in wrestling events.

That said, WWE randomly chooses athletes to perform drug tests, which usually consist of urine tests. However, blood tests, saliva, and hair testing may also be required.

If a wrestler tests positive for steroids, they will be suspended and might even be banned from wrestling altogether.

Therefore, it is very important for WWE wrestlers to stay away from steroids if they want to pursue a career in the pro wrestling world.

Because steroid use is illegal and doing so would put their jobs at risk, most athletes do not admit to using them. Some WWE wrestlers, though, confirmed it.

The retired professional wrestler Hulk Hogan witnessed the peak of wrestling in the entertainment business.

He denied extensive steroid use for a long time. But the WWE Hall of Famer later testified he was taking steroids for 14 years of his pro wrestling career after a big steroid media buzz.

Scott Hall is another professional wrestler who confirmed using steroids during his career.

Other notable names associated with steroid misuse include Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns, Randy Orton, the Ultimate Warrior, and Eddie Guerrero.

Many people have accused other WWE stars, including Vince McMahon, John Cena, Dave Bautista (Batista), and Ettore Ewen (Big E), of using performance-enhancing drugs. However, they have never failed a drug test.

While it is impossible to know for sure how many wrestlers have used steroids, it is clear that the problem is widespread.