The day you sort of knew was coming has finally arrived: Chael Sonnen has officially been suspended from competing in MMA for a full year due to his California State Athletic Commission drug test that yielded a positive result of anabolic steroids. It’s been checked, analyzed, confirmed, reanalyzed and reconfirmed — Chael Sonnen was on steroids when he fought Anderson Silva at UFC 117. A press release was sent out this morning with the CSAC’s official statement on the matter.
The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) has suspended the license of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fighter Chael Sonnen, after Sonnen tested positive for steroids, a banned substance.
A sample from Sonnen’s August 6 drug test came back with a high T/E (testosterone-to-estrogen) level, which is indicative of anaboloic steroid use. CSAC learned of the results September 2 and ordered a second test, which also came back positive for steroid use. CSAC received test results from the second sample on September 14 and suspended Sonnen two days later. He is suspended for one year. Sonnen has 30 days to appeal the decision.
“The use of anabolic steroids and other banned substances are not tolerated by the commission,” said CSAC Executive Officer George Dodd . “Anabolic agents put the health and safety of both the user and his opponents at risk.” Sonnen’s test was observed in the presence of a CSAC representative and the sample was sent to the World Anti-doping Agency test facility at the University of California , Los Angeles on August 6, 2010 for processing.
The definitive conclusion that should emerge from the press release is a resounding ‘Chael Sonnen is guilty’. Throw your logic in the trashcan for the time being, Chael Sonnen has set forth a motion to appeal the failed drug test. Chael Sonnen’s manager, Mike Roberts, spoke with MMAFighting to inform the world where the next plot twist of the steroid scandal will take place.
“It is our policy not to comment on pending actions by the Athletic Commission. Chael is consulting with his legal advisors and physicians and will have a statement in the near future. Chael will file an appeal with the CSAC and looks forward to working with the Commission to resolve this matter.”
Chael Sonnen’s appeal to the California State Athletic Commission will take place on December 2nd in Sacramento, California. Even though this story has all the indications that it has neared it’s conclusion, it’s far from over according to the conservative republican from West Linn, Oregon. Don’t be surprised if Chael Sonnen summons Fox News to prove his own innocence, it wouldn’t be the first time he’s made an appearance on the channel. [Source]
