• UFC 146

Overeem fails drug test, UFC 146 title bout in doubt

ESPN staff
April 4, 2012
Alistair Overeem beat Brock Lesnar last time out © Getty Images
Enlarge

Alistair Overeem's UFC heavyweight title challenge against Junior Dos Santos is in jeopardy after it was revealed he failed a pre-fight drug test conducted on Tuesday.

Nevada State Athletic Commission executive director Keith Kizer told MMAjunkie that the No. 1 heavyweight contender delivered an A sample that had an elevated T/E (testosterone to epitestosterone) ratio exceeding 10-1.

The limit under the NSAC is six-to-one, although Overeem does possess the right to request a B sample. Should that prove over the limit, he will be out of UFC 146.

Six fighters, including Dos Santos, were tested ahead of the May 26 event, which is expected to host the first defence of Dos Santos' reign. The Brazilian, plus Frank Mir, Cain Velasquez, Roy Nelson and Antonio Silva all passed their tests.

Overeem had already had a recent brush with the NSAC, having failed to supply the correct random test when he flew home to tend to his ailing mother. He later attended a hearing to explain his situation ahead of a title eliminator with Brock Lesnar, and was granted a conditional licence in addition to being ordered to meet the requirements of future random drug tests.

One of those came this week, and Overeem must now explain to the NSAC why his sample contained elevated testosterone levels.

The former Strikeforce man is yet to be officially ruled out of UFC 146 and, as such, a replacement opponent for Dos Santos has not yet been discussed.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices