Despite earlier reports that the UFC would stand by Anderson Silva following his failed drug test due to use of steroids, the former UFC middleweight champion has now been removed from his position as coach of the up coming Ultimate Fighter: Brazil series, as requested by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.
Silva’s Blackhouse stablemate, Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, will step in to fill the void.
39-year-old Silva (34-6) made an impressive recovery from a broken leg suffered during his championship rematch with Chris Weidman last year on December 28, and on January 31 he returned to defeat Nick Diaz by way of unanimous decision at UFC 183. However, following his victory, it was revealed that Silva had failed an out-of-competition drug test conducted on January 9, but was strangely allowed to compete due to delayed test results.
While Silva maintains that he is innocent, he is expected to face suspension, and will be unable to corner the Ultimate Fighter’s exhibition bouts as to do so requires a license from the athletic commission.
The UFC released the following statement:
“The UFC announced today that Brazilian legend Rodrigo ‘Big Nog’ Nogueira will join the cast of The Ultimate Fighter Brazil 4, the organization’s signature television reality series, as coach following the departure of UFC middleweight Anderson Silva.
“The Nevada State Athletic Commission, which regulates The Ultimate Fighter series’ exhibition fights filmed in Las Vegas, requested that Silva cease participation in the series as a result of his temporary suspension following the recently announced preliminary results of his January 9 pre-fight drug test for UFC 183.
“The UFC and Globo, the show’s Brazilian broadcaster, respect the Commission’s decision, which will allow Silva to focus his attention on the matter before the Commission. Anderson Silva has been an amazing champion and a true ambassador of the sport of mixed martial arts and the UFC will continue to support him as this process unfolds.
“The series, which began filming in Las Vegas on Monday, Feb. 2, originally featured Silva and former UFC light heavyweight champion Mauricio ‘Shogun’ Rua as head coaches. Rua will continue on as coach of Team Shogun versus the newly formed Team Nogueira, which will also include Big Nog’s twin brother Rogerio ‘Lil Nog’ Nogueira as an assistant coach.”
Photo by Mark Blundell
