Fred Kerley, the 2022 world champion, is competing at the Enhanced Games without performance-enhancing drugs.
He's currently on suspension by World Athletics.
## What's at stake for Fred Kerley?
The American sprinter was banned from competing by World Athletics back in March for failing to attend mandatory medical tests.
The Enhanced Games are set to take place on May 24.
## Why is Fred Kerley refusing drugs?
Fred Kerley gave a statement, explaining the reason behind not wanting to juice up for the run.
He said: "I don’t need it. God gave me fast feet for a reason. And I’m here to showcase my talent."
## What's the controversy surrounding the Enhanced Games?
The events will consist of typical Olympic event sports, and due to its controversial nature, it has often been dubbed “Olympics on Steroids.”
The games have vowed to adhere to the FDA’s guidelines by making sure none of the drugs used fall outside their approval brackets.
Fred Kerley has become the first athlete to have signed up with Enhanced Games since his ban.
He's doing it to provide financially for his family while also highlighting how he has been undergoing all the necessary anti-doping tests required in recent months.
The American has been extremely vocal against the ban that has already been inflicted on him since March and is scheduled to remain in effect until August 2027.
World Athletics has warned athletes of a long-term ban if they decide to compete at the upcoming Enhanced Games.
Fred Kerley has brushed off the statement with a rebuttal of his own that displays his defiance and confidence in his track skills.
He said: "I will compete at the Olympics in 2028. They can’t do nothing. We, us athletes, pay the bills. They don’t pay our bills."
By choosing to enter the upcoming event clean, Fred Kerley is sending out a clear statement of choosing financial stability and athletic freedom over rigid regulations.
The Enhanced Games 2026 will feature a schedule and prize money, with Fred Kerley and James Magnussen set to compete.