Gilbert Melendez dropped a decision in his UFC 188 bout with Eddie Alvarez, but his real issues are only just beginning as it was announced today Melendez failed his June 13 post-fight drug test.
Melendez (22-5 MMA, 1-3 UFC) failed his test for what the UFC called “exogenous origin of testosterone metabolites,” meaning testosterone metabolites that were present from an outside source.
“Regrettably, I tested positive in my post fight urine sample for UFC 188,” Melendez said in a statement posted on the UFC website. “I did not inject anything, but I am responsible and accept the consequences for the results. I will make sure I am better educated about the products I use and their implications. Going forward I will ensure no products I use will contain banned substances. I am sincerely apologetic to everyone who supports me, including my fans, sponsors and the UFC. I value your trust and respect and will do everything in my power to keep it.”
Melendez was set to face Al Iaquinta (12-3-1 MMA, 7-2 UFC) at UFC Fight Night 71, which takes place July 15 at Valley View Casino Center in San Diego.
The lightweight has been removed from that bout and the promotion is searching for a replacement opponent for Iaquinta. In addition, Melendez has been suspended for one year from the date of the bout for violation of the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy.
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Melendez's suspension will force the UFC to make its 29th change to a main or co-main event in 2015. That's rough.
Melendez (22-5 MMA, 1-3 UFC) failed his test for what the UFC called “exogenous origin of testosterone metabolites,” meaning testosterone metabolites that were present from an outside source.
“Regrettably, I tested positive in my post fight urine sample for UFC 188,” Melendez said in a statement posted on the UFC website. “I did not inject anything, but I am responsible and accept the consequences for the results. I will make sure I am better educated about the products I use and their implications. Going forward I will ensure no products I use will contain banned substances. I am sincerely apologetic to everyone who supports me, including my fans, sponsors and the UFC. I value your trust and respect and will do everything in my power to keep it.”
Melendez was set to face Al Iaquinta (12-3-1 MMA, 7-2 UFC) at UFC Fight Night 71, which takes place July 15 at Valley View Casino Center in San Diego.
The lightweight has been removed from that bout and the promotion is searching for a replacement opponent for Iaquinta. In addition, Melendez has been suspended for one year from the date of the bout for violation of the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy.
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Melendez's suspension will force the UFC to make its 29th change to a main or co-main event in 2015. That's rough.
