UFC
Gilbert Melendez out of Al Iaquinta bout, suspended one year following failed UFC 188 drug test
Jul 6, 2015 - 2:15:15 PM Gilbert Melendez out of Al Iaquinta bout, suspended one year following failed UFC 188 drug test

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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief

Gilbert Melendez will no longer be fighting at UFC Fight Night 71 next week, as the UFC announced on Monday that he's been suspended for one year following a failed drug test out of UFC 188.

Melendez, the former Strikeforce Lightweight Champion and two-time UFC Lightweight Title challenger, tested positive for an "exogenous origin of testosterone metabolites" out of his split decision loss to Eddie Alvarez in Mexico City last month. He is not contesting the suspension, and though he denies any intentional wrong-doing, he believes a supplement is to blame for his positive test.

"Regrettably, I tested positive in my post fight urine sample for UFC 188," Melendez said in conjunction with the UFC's statement. "I did not inject anything, but I am responsible and accept the consequences for the results. 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."

Penick's Analysis: Well that's extremely disappointing. Melendez is a little bit lucky in that his positive test came in June, as a similarly failed test starting this week would have brought a two year ban. Melendez's UFC run has come with some significant money attached to it, but given he's 1-3 and has a failed drug test now to go with it, it's been a bit of a nightmare as well.