TUF 7 alumnus and welterweight Matt Riddle is now a former UFC welterweight following a second positive drug test in less than a year. The first offense came at the wretched UFC 149 card, when Riddle tested positive for marijuana. His 3rd round submission win over Chris Clements was overturned to a no contest. In a statement released by the UFC today, they confirmed Riddle’s positive test, his release, and that his decision win over Che Mills is now an NC as well:
Matthew Riddle tested positive for marijuana metabolites following his bout at UFC on FUEL TV 7 in London, England on February 16, 2013. This is Riddle’s second failed drug test for marijuana within the past seven months. Riddle previously failed a post-fight drug test due to marijuana following his UFC 149 victory over Chris Clements.
As such, the UFC organization is exercising its right to terminate Riddle for breach of his obligations under his Promotional Agreement as well as the UFC Fighter Conduct Policy. The UFC organization has a strict, consistent policy against the use of any illegal and/or performance-enhancing drugs, stimulants or masking agents. The outcome of the bout against Che Mills was changed to a no contest and the results of the positive test will be reported to the official Association of Boxing Commissions MMA record-keeper.
Riddle’s MMA record now reads 7-3 with 2 NCs.
Now if you remember, Thiago Silva falsified his urine sample at UFC 125. His opponent, Brandon Vera, was released from the UFC after losing to the Brazilian, but was brought back after the news broke and the bout was overturned to an NC. Could the same thing happen to the recently released Che Mills? Ariel Helwani says that is apparently not the case.
“@lepellikker: @arielhelwani Does this mean that Che Mills gets another chance in the UFC?” I have been told no.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) February 27, 2013
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