• UFC

Sonnen will appeal failed drug test

ESPN staff
September 22, 2010
Chael Sonnen is set to appear on MMA Live © UFC
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Chael Sonnen's management team have confirmed the middleweight fighter will appeal his failed drug test, and he is expected to appear on ESPN's MMA Live to discuss the matter on Thursday.

Sonnen produced a positive drug test before his title fight with Anderson Silva at UFC 117, a bout in which he seriously impressed before losing to a fifth-round triangle choke.

The California State Athletic Commission recently confirmed that Sonnen had been notified of his failed sample, and executive George Dodd later revealed that the fighter had admitted to the use of a performance-enhancing drug ahead of his title encounter.

"He only indicated that he was taking it, but he never indicated why," Dodd told SI.com. "[Sonnen] just let me know he was taking [something] and that's when I called over an inspector to get it documented. But when you do take it you still have to show a medical reason."

It is believed that Sonnen was taking medication for a stomach bug, but if found guilty of substance abuse he will be hit by a $2,500 fine and a year-long suspension from MMA. Sonnen's management team responded to the controversy on Wednesday night, confirming the 33-year-old intends to prove his innocence.

"It is our policy not to comment on pending actions by the Athletic Commission," Mike Roberts told MMA Fighting. "Chael is consulting with his legal advisors and physicians and will have a statement in the near future.

"Chael will file an appeal with the CSAC and looks forward to working with the Commission to resolve this matter."

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