• UFC 159

Failed drug test to cost Pat Healy $135,000

Pat Healy defeated Jim Miller at UFC 159 © Getty Images

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Pat Healy is set to lose $135,000 after he tested positive for marijuana following his recent victory over Jim Miller at UFC 159.

Healy's UFC debut was a memorable one as he emerged victorious in a war of attrition with Miller, eventually ending the bout 58 seconds from the final klaxon with a rear naked choke.

The former Strikeforce man picked up the Fight of the Night and Submission of the Night honours - in addition to his win bonus, working out at $135,000. In total he pocketed $152,500, a portion of which was his appearance fee.

However, the New Jersey Athletic Control Board's post-fight drug examinations delivered a positive test for marijuana, and the UFC does not pay bonuses until drug tests are cleared.

Healy will be suspended for 90 days, and his win will go down as a no-contest on his record. The American confessed it was the poorest decision of his career.

"I would like to start off by apologising to the UFC, Jim Miller, the MMA community, its fans, my family, team-mates and coaches for my positive testing for marijuana after my UFC 159 fight with Jim Miller," he said.

"I was fully aware of the UFC and State Commission's drug policies and made poor life choices. I stand behind the UFC and State Commission's disciplinary actions. I support efforts to make MMA and sports a clean, safe and fair place to compete.

"First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge and take responsibility for my mistake. I made a very poor choice to socially use marijuana and now I must face the consequences of that choice. I can assure you that I will do everything the UFC and State Commission asks of me and beyond. I will also make a conscious effort to be a better role model within the MMA community."

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