Earlier today, Former UFC middleweight champion Anderson 'Spider' Silva was given a 1 year suspension by the Nevada Commission.
According to the investigation,Athletic Silva tested positive for metabolites of the anabolic steroid drostanolone before and after his fight against Nick Diaz at UFC 183 last January. He was also flagged for benzodiazepines in a test conducted on the night of the fight itself. In addition to the suspension, Silva is getting slapped with a $360,000 fine for failing the tests.
Following the verdict, the UFC released this statement regarding the decision:
"Following the Nevada Athletic Commission's hearing today, Anderson Silva is required to serve a 12-month suspension from competition, retroactive from his last fight on January 31. At the conclusion of his suspension, Silva must present a clean test upon reapplication of a license before his next fight in Nevada. The UFC organization maintains a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents by its athletes, and fully supports the Commission's ongoing efforts to ensure clean competition by all MMA athletes.
UFC recognizes Silva's great career and looks forward to his return to the Octagon in 2016."
Silva's defense has baffled many in the Mixed Martial Arts community. The fighter alleges that the reason he tested positive was not because of steroids or PEDs but due to taking a sexual enhancement drug given to him by friend Marcos Fernandes.
Many MMA fans find it hard to believe that an athlete as under scrutiny as Silva is would ingest a seemingly unknown substance without worrying about the consequences.
Silva suffered a shocking leg injury during his previous fight to Chris Weidman in December 2013. It will be some time before he gets another shot at regaining the belt.
