Gilbert Melendez Suspended For 1 Year After Failing Drug Test — UFC News

In a statement on the UFC website, Melendez said, “Regrettably, I tested positive in my post-fight urine sample for UFC 188”.

UFC officials announced the suspension Monday.

Melendez was scheduled to fight Al Iaquinta on July 15th at UFC Fight Night 71, but obviously that’s not going to happen.

The UFC has imposed a one-year suspension on Gilbert Melendez for failing a post-fight drug test after testosterone metabolites were reportedly found in his system.

However, since dropping his UFC debut to ex- lightweight champion Benson Henderson in April of 2013, Melendez has fallen short of expectations, defeating only Diego Sanchez, and losing to Alvarez and Anthony Pettis. According to a statement, Melendez (22-5) tested positive for exogenous origin of testosterone metabolites.

Melendez accepted the decision but clarified that he had not injected anything nor was aware of any banned substance about the products he is taking in. “I value your trust and respect and will everything in my power to keep it”. It’s doubtful the UFC would cut him but when he comes back he will be fighting for his spot on the roster in his next fight. The test marked the first drug failure of Melendez’s career, and drew the 33-year-old a one-year suspension retroactive to the June 13 pay-per-view.

There is now no word on a replacement opponent against Iaquinta.

However it looks like UFC will not have to look for one after all.

Josh Thomson vs. Tony Ferguson becomes the co-main event for the card headlined by heavyweighs Frank Mir and Todd Duffee. The 28-year-old forged his current four-fight win streak while dealing with an injured right knee, and now that his shot at Melendez is off the table, the time to address the injury may be at hand.