CSAC reduces Chael Sonnen’s suspension by 6 months following hearing
The California State Athletic Commission reduced Chael Sonnen’s suspension by six months and maintained a fine of $2,500. A motion…
The California State Athletic Commission reduced Chael Sonnen’s suspension by six months and maintained a fine of $2,500. A motion to uphold the year-long suspension failed by a vote of 2-2.
The two-hour long hearing was largely a circus. Sonnen’s doctor – wearing a black t-shirt, chewing gum, and avoiding eye contact with anyone in the room – was brought in to explain his diagnosis of hypogonadism and subsequent prescription of testosterone injections. He was unable to provide documentation of a fax sent to the athletic commission regarding Sonnen’s testosterone use, claiming that it wasn’t kept in Sonnen’s medical folder.
Sonnen claimed that he provided all documentation requested of him by the California State Athletic Commission. He explained that he felt uncomfortable discussing his condition in front of other fighters as it would bring back thoughts to his childhood of being teased for not going through puberty.
The commission reduced the suspension even though three of the four commission members seemed to agree that Sonnen broke the commission’s rules regarding banned substances.