Former UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva has been handed a one-year suspension by the Nevada Athletic Commission after an odd hearing on Thursday. Silva tested positive for metabolites of the anabolic steroid drostanolone before and after his fight against Nick Diaz at UFC 183, as well as benzodiazepines in the test on fight night.
Following the hearing, the UFC released an official statement on the NAC's decision, in which the organization stresses its clear stance against performance-enhancing drugs of any kind, and looks forward to seeing Silva return in 2016 when his suspension is over. Silva will not be allowed to fight until February of 2016, he is currently 40 years old.
Here's the full statement:
"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."