UFC light heavyweight contender Thiago Silva appears to be ready to return to the Octagon following his one-year suspension. As of January 1st, 2012, Silva is eligible to reapply for his license.
The Brazilian last fought against Brandon Vera at UFC 125, but it was learned after his victory that Silva had tested positive for steroids. The decision was overturned to a “no contest”.
Silva released a statement shortly after admitting to steroid use and revealed he tried to fool the athletic commission by injecting PEDs to heal from a back injury.
“I did so in an attempt to alter the results of the test and knowingly broke the rules of the Nevada Athletic Commission,” Silva wrote. “I am prepared to accept this punishment, learn from it and move on. I apologize to the Commission, the UFC, Brandon Vera and the MMA fans.”
Owning a 14-2 record, Silva has fought some of the top competitors in the 205-pound division. Prior to his bout with Vera, Silva faced Rashad Evans, Lyoto Machida and Keith Jardine.
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