Anderson Silva To Admit PED Use

The UFC has revealed that former middleweight champion Anderson Silva intends to admit to the use of performance enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Silva defeated Nick Diaz via unanimous decision at UFC 183 in January but was afterwards revealed to have popped positive for several PEDs in both pre and post-fight tests. Initially, “The Spider” was ardent in denying the use of steroids, insisting, “I always played clean, I was never a cheater.” Now, it seems Silva has had a change of heart.

Following a report from Brazilian media outlet, UOL, the UFC has released the following statement:

“”The Nevada State Athletic Commission disciplinary hearing for former UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva does not have a set date in March, but according to a story published by Brazilian website UOL on Saturday, the MMA icon and his team are preparing his defense, with Silva reportedly planning to admit to using several banned substances.

“”The report makes clear that Silva will insist that his use of performance enhancing drugs wasn’t to gain an advantage on his opponent, but rather as an aid in his recovery from the broken leg suffered in his December 2013 loss to Chris Weidman. Lawyers will also argue that the amount of the substances found in his system were minimal, thus giving him no advantage over his January 31 opponent, Nick Diaz.””

An interesting development in the ongoing drama then, as “The Spider” remains suspended pending his hearing with the Nevada Athletic Commission later this month. Silvas argument that the banned substances in his system were used to heal rather than cheat is unlikely to carry much weight with the commission, and one suspects the former champion will face further penalties for his indiscretions.