Leading up to the Lightweight title match-up at UFC 73 both Sean Sherk and Hermes Franca were praised for their work ethics, passion and dedication to not just MMA but life. During the lead up to the match-up Sherk's intense training regiment was illustrated on UFC All Access, and it was evident his dedication and hard work was unmatched by any other that has been on the show. Hermes Franca on the other hand revealed to us the passion and love he has for his sport, students and life, all revolving around MMA. Judging on their character and dedication, very few would have suspected these two of testing positive for banned substances, but in the past few hours both have, according to the state regulatory body, California State Atheletic Commision (CSAC).
Sherk has tested positive for a banned substance called Nandroline Metabolite. His Nandrolone levels were measured to be twice the threshold allowed by the CSAC. He has officially been fined the maximum levy of $2,500 and suspended from competition for 365 days. Neither Sherk or a representative have yet made a official statement.
Franca has also been fined $2,500 and been suspended from action until July 5, 2008. Franca told MMAweekly.com that he infact did use a 'banned substance' prior to the bout. "I offer only an explanation and not an excuse," he said. "I made a decision during a difficult time in my training for the fight that I regret." Hermes claims a injured ankle that he wanted to speed up the recovery of prompted him to make the decision to take the banned substance.
It is unclear right now what will happen to Sherk's Lightweight Title, with the champion being unable to defend it for a full year, or what will come of either fighters careers, with such a long gap between competing during their most successful periods as fighters. One thing is clear though, this sort of violation of rules and conduct only acts to tarnish the reputation of both fighters, the sport and the title they were fighting for.
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