It’s emerged that Chael Sonnen failed a second random drug test administered by the Nevada Athletic Commission on June 5th.
The test was in addition to one he had received in late May which he also failed, but on this occasion additional substances showed up that didn’t appear on the first test.
In total Sonnen tested positive for four different illegal substances: human growth hormone (HGH), recombinant human erythropoietin, anastrozole and human chorionic gonadotropin.
“Yes, the Commission is aware of other prescribed medications I was taking and I will not challenge their allegations,” Sonnen stated in a press release. “I will cooperate with the Commission and look forward to having a dialogue about how fighters who transition off TRT can avoid violating any rules.”
After news of his first failed drug test broke Sonnen argued that he was taking two illegal substances in order to safely come off Testosterone Replacement Therapy which had also just been made illegal, while at the same time also helping him to father a child after experiencing fertility issues.
However, he’ll have a harder time explaining the reason why he’s been using these additional substances that have been uncovered, such as HGH – a well known performance enhancing drug.
It’s all academic now though as soon after word of Sonnen’s first failed drug test hit the media he announced his retirement from the sport, but these new test results will further damage his reputation which could make life more difficult for him as he tries to transition from fighting to a career in broadcasting.
Meanwhile, the UFC has issued a formal statement backing the commissions findings.
“We are made aware that a second random test resulted in a positive test result for Chael Sonnen,” the statement read. “Chael will have an opportunity to appear in front of the Nevada State [sic] Athletic Commission on July 23rd. … We will support the commission and continue to ensure that all competitors complete on a level playing field free of performance enhancing drugs.”
