“I’ve been competing in this sport for a very long time. This is my 19th fight in the UFC. I have been thoroughly tested many times and have never had a positive drug test,” Silva said via Soares.
“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. 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 will be required to attend a Nevada Athletic Commission hearing on Feb. 17, when it is expected that he will receive a temporary suspension. A hearing to decide his punishment will be either in March or April.
Steven Muehlhausen is an experienced MMA writer and contributor for Sporting News. E-mail him at [email protected] Find him on Twitter @SMuehlhausenMMA.
