Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva (photo via Strikeforce)

By FCF Staff

Mark Hunt and Antonio “Bigfoot” Silva may have engaged in one of the sport’s best heavyweight fights at UFN 33, December 6th, but the latter has reportedly failed his post fight drug test and won’t be fighting again for at least nine months.

According to multiple reports, Silva has been suspended for that duration by the UFC, and the fighter has also lost his “Fight of the Night” bonus and the extra $50,000 he received.

Although no details have been disclosed by the UFC yet, the 34 year-old Silva has posted the following statement on his Facebook account:

Clarification: Months before my fight I looked for the UFC doctor Marcio Tannure in Brazil so I could start the hormonal replacement “TRT” which was authorized and recognized by a professional. I started the treatment and 2 weeks before my fight I did all the exams required by the UFC. My testosterone level continued to be low so I was recommended by the doctor to increase the dosage. Unfortunately my level increased too much and caused me to suspend. I only did what was recommended by someone trained who understands about the subject therefore it was not my mistake. I’m cool because I know that the mistake was not made by me,I never tried doing anything wrong for my fight.

According to a report from MMA Junkie.com, Silva’s camp applied for a TRT exemption back in March, as the fighter prepared for his bout with Cain Velasquez in May.

The Nevada State Athletic Commission reportedly denied the application, since there was not enough time to investigate Silva’s medical case.

Silva and Hunt battled to a majority draw at the December 6th, UFN 33 card, which was held in Brisbane, Australia. Since the region does not have an athletic commission, the UFC oversees it’s own drug testing and implements any necessary disciplinary action.