Earlier this week UFC light heavyweight contender Thiago Silva admitted that he took illegal substances for his UFC 125 bout with Brandon Vera.
Silva then tried to cheat the system by covering up the drugs for his post-fight urine test, according to TSN. Here is a clip of their report
“I did so in an attempt to alter the results of the test and knowingly broke the rules of the Nevada Athletic Commission,” he said. “This was a terrible decision on my part for which I will be punished. I am prepared to accept this punishment, learn from it and move on.”
“I apologize to the commission, the UFC, Brandon Vera and the MMA fans.”
Silva’s win could be turned into a no contest.
He also faces losing his license to fight, a suspension and/or fine from the Nevada commission. A hearing is set for April 7.
While the failed test is troubling enough, what is more frustrating to me is the way Silva acted during the fight in question.
Silva was the better fighter that night. He was faster. He was stronger. He was dominant.
However, there was a stretch during the bout where Silva had Vera’s back and was hammering him with fists. All Vera could do is cover up but Silva then chose to mock Vera and disrespect him with taunts. Silva went as far as to mimic playing bongo drums on Vera’s back before throwing another powerful fist.
If Silva knew all this time that he had done something illegal to get to the fight, why would he opt to behave the way he did? I know if I knew I wasn’t winning fairly, I wouldn’t be throwing a parade for myself while I cheated.
Silva acted unprofessional and in turn was found to be doing something unprofessional. I was a fan of his coming into that fight but now find myself hoping he fails for the rest of his career.
While I disagree with taking performance enhancers for any reason, I can still respect a fighter who has been caught cheating. But, I would expect those who do it to be humble about it and accept responsibility afterwards. Silva did neither until the evidence had clearly been thrown in his face.
