Chael Sonnen’s indefinite suspension may prompt retirement
The long and winding road of Chael Sonnen’s career just careened down a steep descent of switchbacks on Wednesday, possibly…
The long and winding road of Chael Sonnen’s career just careened down a steep descent of switchbacks on Wednesday, possibly signaling his retirement from mixed martial arts competition.
If I am not granted a license to fight, I will be effectively retired, Sonnen pleaded to the California State Athletic Commission on Wednesday, the emotion evident on his face. I don’t want to retire today.
During deliberation, the consensus among commissioners was that the inconsistent statements were the primary consideration regarding Sonnen’s licensure in California, not so much the money laundering conviction.
The commission openly doubted the sincerity of Sonnen’s statements; commissioner Eugene Hernandez referenced a comment Sonnen made during Wednesday’s hearing as to part of the reason why.
When I am on stage I am performing. No different than any other actor. I charge for those interviews, he had said in regards to the media interviews that were called into question.
CSAC Executive Director George Dodd told MMAWeekly.com that the action is under his jurisdiction only, and that Sonnen could try to get licensed in other states, similar to Josh Barnett, who has not regained his license in California, but will be fighting in Texas in June. It is up to the other state commissions to decide whether or not California’s ruling has any effect on their consideration of granting Sonnen a license.