Thiago Silva completes yearlong suspension for PED use

Light heavyweight Thiago Silva is finally clear to try and build his reputation back up after a 2011 suspension for steroid use ran its course over the weekend, giving Silva a greenlight to be licensed for a fight. The 29-year old’s situation stems from a having submitted synethic urine to mask PED use in the weeks leading up to a bout against Brandon Vera at UFC 125.

“I take full responsibility for making the decision to break the rules and try to cheat the system. I will accept the punishment I receive and will learn from this. I plan to come back as a better person and professional as a result,” wrote Silva when originally addressing the circumstances this past March.

Silva explained he was injected with steroids in order to recover quickly from a serious back condition likely forcing his withdrawal from the match-up Vera after having already missed a year prior due to injury.

The failed drug ultimately test cost Silva his victory over Vera as well as a little over $35,000 in fines and a year of his career. As the fight took place January 1, 2011 the yearlong suspension ran out Sunday. To fight again Silva will have to apply for a license and fance an athletic commission for approval.

The 14-2 Silva holds past wins over Houston Alexander and Keith Jardine as well as finishes in thirteen of his triumphs.

PHOTO CREDIT – UFC

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MMATraining Take: Hopefully Silva used his year off to truly get healthy, both mentally and physically. He’s dealt with some life-altering risks over the past few years where his spine is concerned and no job is worth being paralyzed for. When healthy he’s one of the best out there but there are countless athletes that can be said about who weren’t able to fulfill their potential due to physical limitations.