Chael Sonnen has been cleared to fight against Shogun Rua on Aug. 17 at the TD Garden in Boston, Mass.
“The State Athletic Commission voted unanimously to license Chael Sonnen in Massachusetts for the Ultimate Fight Championship contest scheduled for August 17, 2013 in Boston. The decision followed the recommendation of their Medical Advisory Board which considered Sonnen’s physical condition and medical information. The Commission also considered complaints regarding his reputation and character but concluded no information the Commission received should preclude Sonnen’s licensure,” said Massachusetts State Athletic Commission spokesperson Terrel Harris in an e-mailed statement.
The Massachusetts State Athletic Commission met Thursday to discuss the fighter’s use of testerone replacement therapy as well as hear complaints from Unite Here, a union whose members work in hospitality, gaming, food service, manufacturing, textile, laundry, and airport industries, and the National Organization for Women, according to MMA Junkie.
Sonnen vs. Rua will be the main event for the UFC’s fight card on FOX Sports 1. Both Sonnen and Rua have lost three of their past five fights.