Anderson Silva tested positive for two banned substances during a Jan. 9 drug test and now he is denying taking performance-enhancing drugs.
Silva beat Nick Diaz via unanimous decision at UFC 183 last weekend in his first fight since breaking his leg in a loss to Chris Weidman in late 2013. News of his positive drug test, which was described as an out-of-competition test, was released on Tuesday. A day later Silva’s manager Ed Soares issued a statement on his client’s behalf.
“I’ve been competing in this sport for a very long time. This is my nineteenth fight in the UFC. I have been thoroughly tested many times and have never had a positive drug test.
“I have not taken any performance-enhancing drugs. My stance on drugs is, and will always be, the same. I’m an advocate for a clean sport,” Silva said in the statement.
“I’m consulting with my advisors right now to explore all of my options and intend to fight this allegation and clear my name. I will not make any further comments until my team advises me to do so.”
Silva tested positive for two types of steroids, so it will be interesting to see what his official excuse is during his hearing later this month. Given that Silva is nearing 40 and was recovering from a major injury, it would make sense for him to take a substance to try gaining an edge.
