This past Saturday, Anderson Silva and Nick Diaz faced off in the main event for UFC 183. Turns out not one, but both fighters failed their drug screenings, with each taking far different substances. The fight marked Silva's return to fighting after suffering a horrific broken leg (horrific even by broken leg standards) more than a year ago.
Silva's failed test came due to testing positive for an anabolic steroid (Drostanolone) intended to cut fat. Diaz's was a result of "elevated levels of marijuana metabolites" which was revealed in a post-fight test. Arguably the most intriguing aspect of tonight's revelation is that, just a few months ago, Silva suggested a lifetime ban for fighters who use PEDs.
Silva apparently tested positive three weeks earlier, when he was given an out-of-competition test. It's unclear why those results weren't revealed until now. The result of his failed test will be a discipline hearing. Yahoo reports that the first offense is likely to receive a nine-month license suspension in the state of Nevada.
As for Diaz, he's a third-time offender who was previously caught with pot in his system in both 2007 and 2012. What his punishment will be remains unclear, but in the past a failed marijuana test cost him 30 percent of his wages from UFC 143 in addition to a one-year ban from the Nevada commission. It should also be noted that five years ago Diaz revealed his procedure for beating weed tests.
The UFC also released a statement on Anderson's surprising development:
On February 3, 2015, the UFC organization was notified by the Nevada State Athletic Commission that Anderson Silva tested positive for Drostanolone metabolites on his Jan. 9 out of competition drug test. UFC’s understanding is that further testing will be conducted by the Commission to confirm these preliminary results. Anderson Silva has been an amazing champion and a true ambassador of the sport of mixed martial arts and the UFC, in Brazil as well as around the world. UFC is disappointed to learn of these initial results. The UFC has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents by its athletes.
UFC is yet to release a statement regarding Diaz's test.
Update:
According to Yahoo's Kevin Iole, Silva also tested positive for an oral steroid:
Iole also predicts that the fight (which Silva unanimously won) will be declared a "no contest."
[via Yahoo/Kevin Iole]
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