On Wednesday, the UFC revealed that Anderson Silva failed his out-of-competition drug test for UFC 183, which was conducted by the Nevada Athletic Commission (NAC) on January 9, 2015. According to the test, Silva tested positive for Drostanolone metabolites and Androstane. The two substances are banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, which is strictly followed by the NAC.
A day after the announced test result, the former and longest-reigning UFC middleweight champion has broken his silence over his failed drug test and denies taking any performance-enhancing drugs for UFC 183.
Silva’s longtime manager Ed Soares released the following statement for his fighter:
I’ve been competing in this sport for a very long time. This is my 19th fight in the UFC. I have been thoroughly tested many times and have never had a positive drug test.
I have not taken any performance-enhancing drugs. My stance on drugs is, and will always be, the same. I’m an advocate for a clean sport.
I’m consulting with my advisers right now to explore all of my options and intend to fight this allegation and clear my name. I will not make any further comments until my team advises me to do so.
At the moment, Silva is expected to face a temporary suspension at a February 17, 2015, hearing in Nevada. A disciplinary hearing will follow either in March or April.
