Chael Sonnen hit with 2-year suspension from Nevada Athletic Commission

Chael Sonnen is no longer under temporary suspension from the Nevada Athletic Commission.

Instead, he's been hit with a two-year suspension from the sport of mixed martial arts by the Commission, a ruling handed down on Wednesday. Along with the ban, he is responsible for paying all fees associated with his failed drug tests on May 24 and June 5, and is expected to work with the commission to educate other fighters and help improve testing protocol.

The former multi-division title contender tested positive for five substances over the two failed tests ahead of a schedule fight with Vitor Belfort, and retired from MMA competition on June 11 in response. Shortly after, the UFC and Fox Sports let Sonnen go from his analyst duties as well.

The vote from the Commission was unanimous, according to a report from Sherdog, and Sonnen is said to have been forthcoming and regretful in hearings.

"I am guilty," Sonnen said. "I am ashamed, and I don't have any attempt to put up a defense."

Despite the suspension and his alleged retirement, Sonnen is still scheduled to fight on Aug. 9 for the Metamoris promotion, which is based in Los Angeles. It is unclear at present if the California State Athletic Commission will honor the suspension and prevent Sonnen from fighting their, or if he will withdraw himself in response to the suspension.

When the two-year ban runs its course, Sonnen (28-14-1) will be 39 years old, and with three losses in his last four UFC fights and the unceremonious exit, it seems unlikely he fights for the UFC again.