Two fighters suspended after UFC 149 test failures

UFC 149 might have taken place a few months ago, but a couple of positive tests have just come to light now. Two of the winners on the card were handed 90-day suspensions. Here's what MMA Junkie had to say about it:

Following July's UFC 149 event, welterweight Matt Riddle was flagged for marijuana while featherweight Francisco Rivera tested positive for an undisclosed over-the-counter stimulant, MMA Junkie has learned from multiple sources close to the event.

Both fighters were suspended for 90 days retroactive to the July 21 event, which makes them eligible to fight on Friday. The results of their respective bouts were not changed.

According to sources close to the competitors, both fighters declined to appeal their punishments and apologized for their actions.

It is unknown at this time if either result will be overturned. Riddle defeated Chris Clements via submission in the third round of their welterweight bout, while Rivera knocked out Roland Delorme in the first round of their bantamweight fight. Riddle also earned a $65,000 bonus for submission of the night.

This has positive and negatives. As a Canadian, I'm happy that Alberta's test procedures are up to snuff and they're catching people that are using banned substances. On the other hand, both pops were for relatively minor things, and both fighters should have known better. The suspensions aren't exactly going to affect much - both are eligible to return in tomorrow and neither man has a fight booked - but it's still a small hit the the credibility of the UFC and their fighters.