So by now you have probably been inundated with shattering revelation that both Anderson Silva and Nick Diaz both failed drug screens prior to their fight last Saturday at UFC 183. Silva got popped for a number of PEDs, while Diaz tested positive for the less stigmatized drug, weed. The immediate effect of this news is that their fight, a fight in which Silva won handily, could be declared a no-contest. AS for the lasting effects, those are still to come to fruition. However, it just shows the world that there is something seriously wrong with our beloved sport.
Here is the UFC’s statement on Anderson Silva’s failed test:
“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.”
The UFC’s tone was bit more cryptic in regards to Diaz (who has a history of testing positive for marijuana):
“The UFC has been notified by the Nevada State Athletic Commission that Nick Diaz has tested positive for marijuana metabolites following his fight with Anderson Silva at UFC 183 on Jan. 31 in Las Vegas, Nev. The UFC has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents by our athletes. As a result of his positive test, Diaz has been informed that he has violated the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy and Promotional Agreement with Zuffa, LLC. The UFC organization will fully respect the Commission’s decision relating to Diaz at a hearing set for February 17.”
What does this mean for either fighter? Who the fuck knows. Apparently Diaz is in violation of the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy but Jon Jones was not cited for such after testing positive for cocaine. The UFC is so inconsistent with their disciplinary action that no one can possibly know what the future holds for either fighter.
Perhaps the most damning thing of all is the loss of innocence we collectively have. While rampant PED use in the UFC is no secret, no fighter of Silva’s global stature has tested positive. For millions upon millions of fans, especially those in Brazil, Silva was a walking deity. Being popped for PED use shatters that illusion. The UFC has a real problem on its hands and the news of Silva and Diaz both being popped hopefully forces them to be even more diligent in weeding (no pun intended) out this very real problem.
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