Rousimar Palhares and Joey Beltran fail UFC on FX 6 drug tests, each suspended nine months

Just because Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is holding an international event abroad not under the scrutiny of an athletic commission, doesn't mean that mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters can break the rules.

The world's leading promotion tonight (Jan. 10, 2013) announced that two participants at UFC on FX 6: "Sotiropoulos vs. Pearson," which took place at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre in Australia on Dec. 14, 2012, failed their drug tests.

Brazilian limb-locker, Rousimar Palhares, was popped for an elevated testosterone level, while Joey Beltran tested positive for the anabolic steroid called nandrolone. Both men have been suspended nine months, which is retroactive to fight night, as well as must "pass a drug test upon completion of the suspension before receiving clearance to compete again."

Ouch.

UFC offered the following statement:

"Rousimar Palhares tested positive for elevated testosterone and Joey Beltran tested positive for nandrolone, following their respective bouts at UFC on FX 6 in Australia. The UFC organization has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents. Both athletes have agreed to serve a nine-month suspension retroactive to December 14. They must pass a drug test upon completion of the suspension before receiving clearance to compete again."

As a result of the positive test, Beltran will have his unanimous decision win over Igor Pokrajac overturned and deemed a "No Contest." Palhares, meanwhile, will keep his knockout loss to Hector Lombard intact.

UFC on FX 6 featured Ross Pearson proving that he was "The Real Deal" int he main event of the evening with his third round knockout victory over George Sotiropoulos. Two new TUF winners were also crowned on the main card, as Norman Parke took care of business against Colin Fletcher to win the lightweight final and Robert Whittaker defeated Bradley Scott to take home the welterweight glass trophy.

For complete UFC on FX 6: "Sotiropoulos vs. Pearson" results, coverage and all the event fallout you can handle click here.