THE UFC’S SHERK AND FRANCA DEAL WITH STEROID TURMOIL

Posted on | July 21, 2007 | 4 Comments

UFC Light-Heavyweight Champion, Sean Sherk, and his most recent opponent, Hermes Franca, both test Positive for Steroids, Both Facing Suspension and Fine

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In shocking news, the UFC Light-Heavyweight Champ, Sean Sherk has tested positive for steroid use. In leading up to his title-defense on July 7th at UFC 73 against Hermes Franca, Spike TV had been airing an episode of UFC Unleashed in which Sean Sherk’s training regimen was shown. Fighters and athletes across the world were amazed and flabbergasted by what appeared to be a man with a mission whose training methods and intensity made some people think that Sherk was maybe a cyborg or some type of machine. What we saw on TV was that Sherk had a very well-rounded training program that also included some rather unorthodox exercises. But the overall picture that we got of Sherk was that he was the “all-American athlete;” a health-concious positive role-model and inspiration for fighters everywhere. He reminds me of a superhero with they way he is built and his attitude, personality, and athletic ability. So needless to say, it made it even more shocking to hear the allegation of steroid use come into play.

Sherk’s MMA record is 32-2-1. He’s only lost two fights in his whole career and he’s the current Lightweight Champion of the UFC. His most recent fight was against Hermes Franca at UFC 73 on July 7th, who ironically has also tested postive for steroid use. Because Sherk is the champion, the news of his testing has garnered more attention and kind of overshadowed Franca’s positive test results. But the fact remains, both of these athletes have tested positive for steroids. There have been other fighters recently who’ve also tested positive for steroid use such as Stephan Bonnar and even the legend Royce Gracie. What is going on with all of this steroid use? It’s just crazy. It really takes away from the athlete’s credibility when they do this. They lose alot of respect from friends and fans. I don’t understand it but I hope that it is just some isolated cases and does not become a real epidemic within the sport of MMA. Athletes I know are always looking for that extra edge, that one thing to set them apart and make them better than their opponent, but definitely steroids are not the answer; they are not the way to go.

Here’s what was posted on the UFC website concerning Sean Sherk:

“July 19 – Today, the California

State Athletic Commission released information stating that UFC Lightweight Champion Sean Sherk tested positive for the banned substance Nandrolone Metabolite and that lightweight contender Hermes Franca tested positive for Drostanolone, also a banned substance, in drug tests following their five-round fight on July 7th at UFC 73 in Sacramento, California.

Both of these substances are anabolic agents, and both fighters face a possible fine and suspension by the CSAC.

“Our policy on fighters using steroids, illegal drugs or any banned substance remains the same – you cannot use them,” said UFC President Dana White. “It’s not only unhealthy and unsafe, it is against the law. The UFC fully supports the commission’s efforts and we will continue to take measures that keep this sport clean and keep the athletes safe.”

Sherk retained his title in that fight against Hermes and what a great fight it was. From what I’ve heard, Sherk is denying the allegations of the steroid use and is appealling the results, while Hermes Franca admitted to and has conceded to his testing positive. As of now, to my knowledge, what repercussions will result from this has not been made known. Suspensions for steroid use could be up to a year or even longer. That would devastate the Lightweight Division and most-likely Sherk would be have to give up his Title. It would be a real shame if Sherk is stripped of his Lightweight Title. He really is one of the greatest Lightweight fighters in the world and he works so hard. I hope the tests do turn out to be false for him but it doesn’t look good right now. I wish both of the fighters the best of luck. They are both great fighters and athletes and hope to see them both back in the Octagon soon, clean and healthy.

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