The UFC issued a statement on Thursday’s Anderson Silva hearing before the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
Via UFC.com:
Following the Nevada Athletic Commission’s hearing today, Anderson Silva is required to serve a 12-month suspension from competition, retroactive from his last fight on January 31. At the conclusion of his suspension, Silva must present a clean test upon reapplication of a license before his next fight in Nevada. The UFC organization maintains a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents by its athletes, and fully supports the Commission’s ongoing efforts to ensure clean competition by all MMA athletes.
UFC recognizes Silva’s great career and looks forward to his return to the Octagon in 2016.
Payout Perspective:
A rather innocuous response to a poor showing before the commission by what many believe is the greatest fighter of all time. The commission chastised Silva for his “soft testimony” implying that he was not telling truth under oath. The statement provided by the UFC indicates that he is expected to return despite turning 40. Despite Thursday’s hearing, Silva is still revered by most in Brazil and the UFC still would like him as an ambassador for the sport after his fighting days are over.
As a long time MMA fan, I have little interest in seeing Silva fight in the UFC anymore. His last three fights demonstrated that he is no longer competitive in the UFC. Maybe he would be better off going to Bellator where he would find some form of fights where his name recognition with serve him well.
I agree with mmaguru. This feels like when Royce tested positive after trying to fight long after his expiration date. I’m good calling quits on a great career.