Melendez (photo via UFC.com)

By FCF Staff

Another of the UFC’s biggest names has failed a drug test, as the promotion has announced that Gilbert Melendez has tested positive for banned substances, following his split decision loss to Eddie Alvarez on June 13th.

The UFC has announced that Melendez tested positive “for exogenous origin of testosterone metabolites”, and as a result, he’s been suspended for one year. Since Melendez lost the fight to Alvarez, the decision will stand.

The former Strikeforce champ was scheduled to fight Al Iaquinta on July 15th. The UFC is seeking for a new opponent.

The announcement also included the following statement from Melendez:

“Regrettably, I tested positive in my post fight urine sample for UFC 188,” Melendez said. “I did not inject anything, but I am responsible and accept the consequences for the results.  I will make sure I am better educated about the products I use and their implications. Going forward I will ensure no products I use will contain banned substances. I am sincerely apologetic to everyone who supports me, including my fans, sponsors and the UFC.  I value your trust and respect and will do everything in my power to keep it.”

Heading into UFC 188, Melendez was coming off a submission loss to now former champ, Anthony Pettis. The 33 year-old currently carries a record of 22-5.