Heavyweight Lavar Johnson Photo Credit: Esther Lin/Strikeforce

By Timothy J. Gilbert

Shortly after the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) handed down a nine month suspension to Lavar Johnson for elevated levels of testosterone, the UFC reportedly has released him from his contract.

Johnson (17-7) failed a post fight drug test following his unanimous decision loss to Brendan Schaub at UFC 157.   The heavyweight tested positive for elevated testosterone-to-epitestosterone levels and according to MMAJunkie.com has been cut from the UFC.

Johnson’s T/E levels were reported to be 6.6-to-1, higher than the maximum ratio of 4-to-1.

Earlier today the CSAC issued a nine month suspension and undetermined fine. The UFC has gone a step further and removed Johnson from their ranks.

The heavy-handed striker leaves the UFC with a 2-2 record inside the octagon with his two victories coming by first round knockout.

All 17 of Johnson’s professional wins have come by way of stoppage, 15 of them due to strikes.