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Monday, Nov 28, 2011

Chris Leben Suspended for One Year Following Failed Drug Test

Leben

By FCF Staff

The Ultimate Fighting Championship has announced today that it has suspended Chris Leben for one year, after the middleweight reportedly tested positive for the painkillers oxycodone and oxymorphone, following his stoppage loss to Mark Munoz last month.

Leben faced Munoz at UFC 138 on November 5th in Birmingham, England, and due to the fact the promotion oversees its own drug testing in the country, the UFC has levied the fighter’s suspension.

“I like Chris and I want him to do well, but based on his actions, he’s been suspended for one year,” UFC President Dana White was quoted saying in the official announcement. “If he needs professional help, we are going to be there for him. We want to see him succeed not only in the Octagon, but in his personal life.”

This is not the first time Leben has been suspended for a failed drug test, as in 2008 the fighter allegedly tested positive for the steroid Stanozolol, following his decision loss to Michael Bisping at UFC 89. That infraction resulted in a nine month suspension.

“I would like to make it known that I fully accept this suspension and apologize for embarrassing the UFC, my friends and family, and sport of mixed martial arts,” Leben said. “I’m learning that I’m my own worst enemy sometimes. I can’t succeed in the Octagon or in life behaving this way. I’ve got to make some real changes over the next year and I’m going to focus on getting my life and career back on track. Again, I’m sorry to the UFC and fans that’ve supported me since my days on The Ultimate Fighter.”

The 31 year-old Leben (22-8) concluded his 2011 campaign having gone 1-2. In July, the powerful slugger knocked out Wanderlei Silva in less than 30 seconds, to rebound from a stoppage loss to Brian Stann in January.

All of the other competitors from UFC 138 reportedly passed their post-fight drug tests.

 

 

posted by FCF Staff @ 5:37 pm
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