Anderson Silva Vindicated After Cause of Failed Drug Test Determined to Be Contaminated Supplements

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LOS ANGELES, July 18, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- The U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) announced today that former UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva's positive test for banned substances in October 2017 was a result of contaminated supplements purchased from a Brazilian compounding pharmacy, not intentional doping. 

"This is great news. I am vindicated," exclaimed Mr. Silva. "The past nine months have been extremely difficult. I felt like my career and everything I had worked so hard for was dying and my future was hanging in the balance. I knew in my heart that I had done nothing wrong and fully cooperated with USADA during their inquiry to prove it." 

Mr. Silva tested positive for methyltestosterone and hydrochlorothiazide following an out-of-competition urine test conducted on October 26, 2017. The pharmacy that prepared Anderson's supplement did not list these ingredients on the label and claimed to utilize manufacturing processes designed to eliminate the possibility of cross-contamination with other medications and supplements that could have banned substances in their formula.

Under the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, the determination that an athlete's positive by a contaminated product and not intentional doping can result in a reduced sanction.  Anderson, who holds the longest title reign in UFC history, received the minimum, a one-year period of ineligibility. He was originally facing a career-ending four-year ban and a fine of $500,000.00.

A mark of a true champion and professional, Anderson accepts responsibility for the sanction. "USADA has policies and procedures and I respect their decision. I am just thrilled to have my name cleared and credibility restored," mentions Mr. Silva. The accomplished fighter will be able to return to the ring November 11, 2018.

Anderson Silva, who is often compared to the Muhammad Ali and Pele of his sport, holds an astonishing seventeen fight winning streak and ten consecutive title defenses in the UFC.  He has been instrumental in bringing the sport to broader audiences and increasing its popularity, especially among families. Anderson has always focused on the athleticism, authenticity, and the mental and physical discipline of mixed martial arts during competition.

In addition to his distinguished fighting career, Anderson Silva has devoted much of his time outside the ring giving back to his community.  He works with youth organizations including The Boys and Girls Club, operates MMA academies for underprivileged kids in California and his native Brazil, and is an Ambassador for Children's Hospital, among other ongoing charitable endeavors. 

"Today I have a renewed energy. My legacy is restored. I can focus on getting back into the ring and the next chapter of my life after fighting. I want to thank my family and fans for all their love and unwavering support. I am excited for where future will take me and look forward to sharing the journey with all of them," beams Anderson.

SOURCE Anderson Silva