• UFC

Sonnen future to be decided by end of April

ESPN staff
April 19, 2011
Chael Sonnen has been linked to Vitor Belfort and Michael Bisping © UFC
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Chael Sonnen could be clear to assume his anticipated rivalry with Michael Bisping by the end of the month after it was revealed that he has a date with the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) set for April 27.

Sonnen has been inactive since UFC 117 after he was suspended for six months due to high levels of testosterone found in his drug test. As a result, the American must now re-apply for his fight licence, which is not expected to prove an easy task.

As part of his defence for the abnormal levels of testosterone, Sonnen cited a condition called hypogonadism and claimed NSAC executive director Keith Kizer was aware of the situation. Sonnen has since admitted he was wrong to bring Kizer into the equation, but that will not prevent a nervy hearing come April 27.

"I don't feel comfortable granting his licences based on his background," Kizer told ESPN. "I feel the issues surrounding him are important enough for him to go before the full commission.

"That way, the commission will be able to discuss the issues that arose with respect to his last bout in California, as well as his recent criminal conviction (for money laundering)."

Sonnen is expected to face either Vitor Belfort or Bisping should he be granted a return to the Octagon, with the latter offering the added possibility of a TUF 14 coaching rivalry.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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