Antonio ‘Bigfoot’ Silva fails post-fight drug test
Posted: Tue Dec 17, 2013 6:55 pm
Antonio ‘Bigfoot’ Silva fails post-fight drug test, stripped of $50,000 bonus
http://mmajunkie.com/2013/12/antonio-bi ... 000-bonus/
http://mmajunkie.com/2013/12/antonio-bi ... 000-bonus/
Despite gaining approval for the use of testosterone replacement therapy, Antonio Silva still failed his post-fight drug test following a “Fight of the Year” candidate against Mark Hunt in the headliner of UFC Fight Night 33.
MMAjunkie learned of the failure through multiple sources close to the event, which took place Dec. 7 at Brisbane Entertainment Centre in Brisbane, Australia, and was regulated by the promotion. UFC officials have since confirmed the failed screen, which indicated an elevated testosterone level.
“Silva is on a medically approved regimen of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), and had been in compliance with therapeutic guidelines on all pre-fight tests performed prior to the event,” a statement issued by a UFC rep read. “The results of his test on the day of the event indicated a level of testosterone outside of allowable limit. Silva has been informed that the elevated testosterone level is a violation of the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy and his Promotional Agreement with Zuffa.”
Silva and Hunt fought to a bloody draw and drew ecstatic praise from UFC President Dana White, who gave both of the heavyweights the “win” portion of their contracted purses and gushed that he would buy them their own private islands.
Silva, a onetime title challenger, will be suspended for nine months. Additionally, he was stripped of his $50,000 “Fight of the Night” bonus, which will now be awarded to Hunt. The result of the fight will be changed to a “no contest” on Silva’s official record, while Hunt will retain the draw.