UFC issues statement regarding Sonnen's failed drug test; supports NAC

Following UFC Fight Night: Swanson vs. Stephens Saturday night, UFC public relations director Dave Sholler issued a statement regarding Chael Sonnen's second failed drug test.

"We are made aware that a second random test conducted earlier this month resulted in a positive test for additional banned substances," Sholler said (via BloodyElbow). "Chael [Sonnen] will have an opportunity to appear in front of the Nevada State Athletic Commission later this month, and through a statement released to the media, he has pledged to cooperate.

"We will support the commission and continue to ensure that all UFC competitors complete on an even playing field free of performance enhancing drugs and banned substances."

Sonnen, a two-time challenger for the UFC middleweight championship, was handed a temporary suspension by the NAC as a result of his first failed drug test, and has since retired from actively competing in MMA.