"We respect the California commission and the job they do. We always enjoy working with them and work very well together. The illegal use of steroids is a problem in all major sports, including mixed martial arts. We certainly do not condone the use of steroids. But we also support, trust and have confidence in our fighter, Antonio Silva, who has denied ever taken any illegal substance, including steroids, and is prepared to challenge the results of the California Commission. So until all the facts are known and a final decision is rendered, EliteXC will reserve making any further comments at this time.’’
-- Head of EliteXC Fight Operations, Jeremy Lappen, issues a formal response on behalf of the organization regarding the news today that its heavyweight champion, Antonio "Bigfoot" Silva, tested positive for steroids following his win over Justin Eilers to capture the vacant heavyweight strap on July 19. Silva and his management declared his innocence earlier today via the UnderGround forum. It looks like this is Déjà vu all over again for the California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) -- the UFC has recently been down a similar path with one of its champions, Sean Sherk.
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