The Brazilian Vinicius “Spartan” was caught in the anti-doping test carried out after his fight at UFC-120, an event that took place last month in England. On that occasion, the Tupiniquim athlete was submitted by the Englishman Rob Broughton with a rear naked choke in the third round.
The illegal substance found in the “Spartan” exam was Stanozolol, the same anabolic steroid used by Canadian runner Ben Johnson at the Seoul Olympics in 1988. This steroid is used mainly for the purpose of increasing muscle mass without fluid retention.
According to the UFC representative in the United Kingdom, Marshall Zelaznik, the fighter has been fired from the organization and the case will be forwarded to the Nevada State Athletic Commission, a fact that could harm the Brazilian's international career.
“The UFC uses the same rules used by the Nevada Athletic Commission. We have a great responsibility not only with our fighters but also with this sport, which we take very seriously”, said Zelaznik.
Before debuting in the UFC, Vinicius “Spartan” had won his last four fights. The fighter began his professional career in 2003 and has a record of five wins and two losses in MMA.
