Zuffa releases statement on Stephan Bonnar and Dave Herman failed drug tests at UFC 153

Just yesterday (Nov. 2, 2012), it was reported that both Stephan Bonnar and Dave Herman had failed their drug tests at UFC 153 on Oct. 13 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Bonnar (lost to Anderson Silva by knockout in round one) was popped for Drostanolone, an anabolic steroid, while Herman (lost to Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira by submission in round two) tested positive for marijuana metabolites.

To make matters worse, both men are repeat offenders.

Because there is no athletic commission in Brazil, testing was done by the UFC itself. They also reported the results of said test and now UFC.com has released a statement from the company on the matter:

"Stephan Bonnar and Dave Herman tested positive for banned substances following their bouts at UFC 153. The UFC has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents. Both fighters have admitted taking the banned substances and have orally agreed to suspensions. Once the suspensions have been reduced to written agreements, the results of their tests and the agreed upon suspensions will be sent to the Association of Boxing Commissions official record-keeper so other jurisdictions will be on notice."

Bonnar's suspension is meaningless because he's now effectively retired from the sport of mixed martial arts (MMA) with the bout against Silva being his last hoorah.

What a way to go out, shriveled up and embarrassed.

Herman, meanwhile, was probably on his way out of the promotion anyway. After knocking out Jon Olav Einemo in his Octagon debut in June 2011, he's been finished in three consecutive bouts by Stefan Struve, Roy Nelson and the aforementioned Nogueira.

I would say this is the final straw but the camel's back was already broken.

For more on Bonnar and Herman failing drug tests at UFC 153 click here.