Gilbert Melendez is the latest fighter to fail a post-fight drug test.
The 33-year old former Strikeforce lightweight champion tested positive for what was termed “exogenous origin of testosterone metabolites” following his UFC 188 loss to Eddie Alvarez.
As a result, Melendez has been suspended for one year and has been pulled from his scheduled July 15 bout against Al Iaquinta in San Diego. The UFC announced it is seeking a replacement opponent for Iaquinta.
“Regrettably, I tested positive in my post fight urine sample for UFC 188,” Melendez stated. “I did not inject anything, but I am responsible and accept the consequences for the results. I will make sure I am better educated about the products I use and their implications. Going forward I will ensure no products I use will contain banned substances. I am sincerely apologetic to everyone who supports me, including my fans, sponsors and the UFC. I value your trust and respect and will do everything in my power to keep it.”
Since the Alvarez bout took place on June 13, the punishment was handed out under the previous terms for drug-test failures. The new guidelines with harsher punishments went into effect for events held starting July 1.
MMA Hour Melendez talks about agreeing to fight Al Iaquinta on short notice