I actually found the comments from JT and Matthes pretty disturbing on Monday's Pulp Show. I have a lot of respect for both these dudes, as an addicted Pulp listener from the beginning.
However, after joining in on some Jeff Alessi flogging and ridicule, JT basically said: yes, it occurred and he knew it (HGH?) but it was a decade ago so it doesn't matter. He said it doesn't really help in motocross much anyhow because it is a sport based on skill and reflexes, not strength, and he even said athletes using certain substances were "trying to better themselves." (Correct me if I'm wrong JT)
The basic message was "don't go runnin' down the reputation of pro mx just because some riders dabbled in when it was in the news a lot because of baseball." So simultaneously saying that it went on, but it no big deal, is kind of odd.
A decade ago, RC was running his last season as the most dominant rider in mx history, including ridiculous feats like lapping entire fields etc. and Jeff Alessi and Mike Alessi were a couple years into their pro careers. HGH apparently wasn't against the rules back then, IDK.
IMO, hell yeah it matters if doping was going on, especially in an era where the same pros are still collecting LARGE CHECKS from motorcycle companies based on their accomplishments. I am one fan that sat through 99% of the pro SX and outdoor races of the 90s, 2000s and 2010s. It is important to me if some were taking substances.
Also, JT and Matthes both work for (and are very loyal to) the promoter of the outdoor motocross series. I am not making any accusation about them (or RC) but this does not position them well for any investigative journalism on this issue, which they are clearly pretty much indicating they are ready to sweep under the rug. So maybe instead of participating in the public hanging of Jeff, people should be more open-minded that there is something here.
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