Mike King Fails Drug Test - Fired and Suspended

[keithlewis]

UFC middleweight Mike King has been handed a nine-month suspension due to a positive test for the anabolic steroid nandrolone following his UFC Fight Night Dublin loss to Cathal Pendred, promotion officials announced on Wednesday. A contestant on TUF 19, King battered Pendred for one round before succumbing to a thrilling second-round comeback at the event, which took place July 19, 2014 at The O2 in Dublin, Ireland and aired live on UFC Fight Pass. Both fighters were initially awarded $50,000 ‘Fight of the Night' bonuses, however King's half of the bonus has now been forfeited as a result of his failed drug test, and King has subsequently been released from his contract.


UFC Statement on Mike King


UFC middleweight Mike King tested positive for nandrolone following his bout against Cathal Pendred at UFC Fight Night Dublin: McGregor vs. Brandao on July 19, 2014. He was informed that his positive test violated the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy and Promotional Agreement with Zuffa, LLC. The UFC has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents by our athletes. He agreed to serve a 9-month suspension retroactive to the event and must pass a drug test before receiving clearance to compete again. He will forfeit his $50,000 Fight of the Night bonus.


King released the following statement to MMAFighting.com on Wednesday:

Following my bout against Cathal Pendred at UFC Fight Night Dublin: McGregor vs. Brandao on July 19, 2014 I tested positive for the banned substance Nandrolone.

The consequences for my conduct are truly significant: the life changing $50,000 Fight of The Night bonus I was awarded has been taken away, I have been informed that my UFC promotional agreement is being terminated, I have been placed on a nine month suspension, and I have publicly humiliated myself.
I accept full responsibility for my actions and decisions and make no excuses.

I want to apologize to my opponent and friend Cathal Pendred, the UFC, Dana White, Lorenzo Fertitta, coaches, team mates, management, friends, family, and most importantly my fans.

I believe in the power of redemption and second chances. I will work tirelessly to prove I am a trustworthy person who deserves the honor of competing at the highest level in the sport I love.