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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
Former Bellator Middleweight Champion seemingly got back on track in the organization last month, stopping Melvin Manhoef with a spinning back fist for a KO win at Bellator 133. Unfortunately, he's failed a drug test out of the event, and will be suspended by the California State Athletic Commission.
According to a report from MMAJunkie.com, Shlemenko tested positive for a "significantly elevated" testosterone-to-epitestosterone ratio out of the event, and the win will most likely be overturned to a no contest.
"We are disappointed to hear about the results of Shlemenko's drug test," said Bellator President Scott Coker in a statement confirming the failed test. "As I've stated previously, performance enhancing drugs have no place in this sport, and Bellator fully supports the commission in enforcing harsh penalties to deter fighters from taking banned substances."
When the fight ultimately gets overturned, Shlemenko will be winless in three straight Bellator fights after a 13-0 stretch from 2010 to 2014.
Penick's Analysis: I don't think anyone at any point should be surprised by a drug test failure. Far too many are using, the punishments levied aren't enough to deter use, and fighters continue to feel they can flat-out get away with it. Didn't happen with Shlemenko here, but it certainly brings up the question over whether or not this is the first time he's done anything.
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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