BloodyElbow.com has confirmed that Strikeforce heavyweight Josh Barnett has not been registered to compete in Texas.
Barnett, who will fight Brett Rogers in the quarter-finals of Strikeforce’s Heavyweight Grand Prix tournament next weekend, must complete his application within 72 hours prior to his scheduled bout, according to Public Information Officer for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, Susan Stanford.
BloodyElbow.com also reports that Stanford said Barnett’s application was incomplete, however she confirmed that he has submitted materials in order to renew his license.
Barnett has fought in mixed martial arts for the last decade, competing in such promotions as, UFC, Pride FC, Sengoku and Affliction Entertainment. The former UFC heavyweight champion has dealt with his fair share of controversy throughout his career, as he encountered problems with steroid possession and has failed three drug tests. Barnett failed his drug test in 2009, after it was submitted to the California State Athletic Commission, and ultimately canceled his bout with Fedor Emelianenko.
Since then, Barnett has competed for Japanese promotion DREAM, as well as Impact FC, where he has picked two wins respectively. While he has not lost since 2006, the potential risk of unsuccessfully completing his application could not only have an impact on Barnett’s career, but perhaps, the tournament.
Strikeforce CEO, Scott Coker announced to the media that Barnett would be ready in time to fight next weekend but given his recent status within the company at this point, along with his failure to abide under the rules and guidelines of several state athletic commissions, Barnett seems anything but ready.
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