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

By Staff Reporter (media@latinospost.com) | First Posted: Jul 07, 2015 07:02 AM EDT

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.

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.

“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” says Melendez in a press statement from UFC.com

It becomes a double black eye of sorts for Melendez is coming of a three-round split decision lost to Eddie Alvarez at UFC 188. It was his third loss in four UFC fights.

The one-year suspension will also mean that Melendez will be unable to face Al Iaquinta this coming July 15 in San Diego at the Valley View Casino.

“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” adds Melendez.

There was no mention in the press release of what substance Melendez actually used that merited him the one-year suspension though it may most likely be a nutritional supplement. But on a bright side, Melendez is still fortunate that the failed tests came before July 1.

Starting July 1, drug testing will be switched to the United States Anti-Doping Agency. Had Melendez’ case reached that point, he would have ended up being banned for a minimum of two years.

Though Iaquinta’s opponent has yet to be officially named, it looks like it may not happen at all. Melendez was originally tabbed to take the place of an injured Bobby Green and now the UFC may have to find another fighter to pick up the slack.

However it looks like UFC will not have to look for one after all. A report from the MMA Hour (via Fox Sports) bares that the UFC is no longer searching for Melendez’ replacement and that Iaquinta has been pulled from the UFC: Fight Night: Mir vs. Duffee card.

With no opponent to face and perhaps the lack of time to find one, Iaquinta will use the time to address an issue with his knee. And instead, UFC PR man Dave Sholler announced via Twitter that there will now be a new co-main lightweight event pitting Tony Fergusson and Josh Thomson.