CSAC votes 4-1 to uphold Chael Sonnen’s indefinite suspension

One-time UFC middleweight title contender Chael Sonnen will not be competing in the octagon anytime soon.

The California State Athletic Commission today ruled to uphold Sonnen’s indefinite suspension, citing both a recent federal money-laundering conviction, as well as some questionable testimony following a positive result in a post-UFC 117 drug screen.

The CSAC made their ruling during today’s special meeting, which took place at the Ronald Reagan State Office Building in Los Angeles. The motion passed with a vote of 4-1.

Sonnen can not reapply for a license before June 29, 2012. Should he elect to do so, he’ll have to once again appear before the CSAC.

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Both ESPN’s Josh Gross and MMAJunkie’s Steven Marocco were giving live updates of today’s hearing via Twitter. Part of that coverage is below:

Josh Gross: JoshGrossESPN

NSAC executive director Keith Kizer to testify via streaming video. Sonnen and CSAC exec. officer George Dodd will also be witnesses.

First sniping between lawyers re: entry of evidence of Sonnen’s statements in interviews. The state wins this one. The clips will be heard.

Sonnen’s attorney Steve Thompson says the felony conviction in Oregon should play no part in his licensing in California. Eloquent opening.

Thompson is talking up how much UFC supports Sonnen through their willingness to put him on TUF and a potential title fight.

Options regarding Sonnen’s possible suspension are discussed. Commissioner Gene Hernandez makes a motion to uphold indefinite suspension.

Steven Marrocco: MMAjunkieSteven

Thompson reveals Sonnen is under consideration to coach next season of tuf and fight bisping in no 1 contender bout.

Thompson begins closing statement. Chael is a “fundamentally good person.”

All commissioners agree that Sonnen’s conviction and statements to commission do constitute discredit to MMA

Commissioners vote 4-1 to uphold chaels suspension.

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