Pat Healy issues statement on failed UFC 159 drug test, apologizes for 'poor life choices'

The biggest win in the mixed martial arts (MMA) career of Pat Healy is seemingly up in smoke.

"Bam Bam" today issued a formal statement through Jason House, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Iridium Sports Agency, revealing that he tested positive for marijuana after his "Fight of the Night"-winning performance against Jim Miller at UFC 159, which took place at Prudential Center in Newark, N.J., on April 27, 2013.

His full statement:

"I would like to start off by apologizing to the UFC, Jim Miller, the MMA community, it's fans, my family, teammates and coaches for my positive testing for marijuana after my UFC 159 fight with Jim Miller. I was fully aware of the UFC and State Commissions drug policies and made poor life choices. I stand behind the UFC and the State Commission's disciplinary actions. I support efforts to make MMA and sports a clean, safe and fair place to compete. First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge and take responsibility for my mistake. I made a very poor choice to socially use marijuana and now I must face the consequences of that choice. I can assure you that I will do everything the UFC and State Commission asks of me and beyond. I will also make a conscious effort to be a better role model within the MMA community."

Neither Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) nor New Jersey State Athletic Control Board, which would be responsible for fines, suspensions and possibly overturning his first victory inside the Octagon to a "No Contest," have provided any additional information about Healy's failed test and possible ramifications.

However, at a minimum, it would appear that Healy would be facing a six-month suspension from mixed martial arts (MMA) competition and possibly ordered to complete an approved drug rehabilitation program. It's quite certain that his win over Miller will also be ruled a "No Contest," which would be a big blow to the Strikeforce import who -- against all odds -- earned the respect of fight fans for his gritty underdog performances.

Healy even cracked the Top 10-ranked list of Lightweight fighters after his come-from-behind submission win over Miller, coming in at No. 9 and, subsequently, calling for a Top 5-ranked opponent in his next outing.

Those plans could now all change because of a admittedly "poor choice."

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