The Guardian has identified a dozen ambassadors, affiliates and employees of Gencore Global, a UK-based wellness brand, who are promoting an illegal steroid market through an underground Telegram network. The network, initially called Rohm and now rebranded as Anabolic By Nature, sells anabolic steroids, prescription medicines, and experimental peptides. Gencore CEO Darren Wicks actively participates in the Telegram group, advising on transporting steroids through airports and recruiting new ambassadors.
Gencore's Public Image vs. Underground Activities
Gencore Global presents itself as a health and wellness company, selling skincare, hair-loss treatments, and supplements. It has appeared at FitXpo North West, sponsored a racehorse, launched a combat sports promotion, and plans to attend the National Running Show. However, its ambassadors collectively have over 180,000 followers on TikTok and Instagram and use these platforms to direct followers to Telegram channels for illegal drug sales. One ambassador, Lewis G (LJG Fitness), posts about steroid use on TikTok and links to Anabolic By Nature in his biography.
Telegram Network Details
At least six admins on Anabolic By Nature share usernames or images with Gencore ambassadors, employees, or affiliates. The group advertises steroids, peptides, testosterone replacement therapy, and prescription-only drugs like human growth hormone, tirzepatide, and tretinoin. Experimental peptides BPC-157 and TB-500 are also sold, despite being unregulated and illegal to sell with medicinal claims. The group offers 12% commission on sales for ambassadors.
CEO Involvement
Darren Wicks leads the Telegram group, informing members about stock, defending delivery delays, and advising on airport transport. In a video, he claims to have flown to Dubai with steroids without being stopped, stating, "They're not looking for your half a vial of Test-E and your little pot of winstrol. They're looking for bombs." He also encourages members to become Gencore ambassadors for commission. When contacted by the Guardian, Wicks said Gencore Global "did not sell steroids" and that "crossover between communities happens all the time."
Health Risks and Expert Warnings
Anabolic steroids carry significant health risks, including suppressed natural testosterone, infertility, acne, hair loss, mood changes, and increased risk of heart disease and liver damage. Geoff Bates, a public health lecturer at the University of Bath, warned that social media normalizes steroid use, linking it to masculinity and appearance norms. He noted that users often see steroids as part of a wellness regimen, but this can be misleading. The Telegram groups are repeatedly shut down and recreated; Rohm had over 13,000 members in November 2025, while Anabolic By Nature amassed over 5,500 since April.
