Chael Sonnen is accused of money laundering - Photo: Josh Hedges
The North American phase Chael Sonnen It's not the best. After being caught in the anti-doping test carried out at UFC-117, after his defeat to Anderson Silva, the athlete is now facing problems with the United States justice system.
Sonnen, who before becoming a professional fighter was a real estate agent in the city of Portland, is accused of overpricing the prices of plumbing materials by passing on the difference between the real value and the stipulated value to the buyer of the property. Practice that constitutes the crime of money laundering. The penalty for this offense in the United States can be up to 20 years in prison.
With the news of the lawsuit becoming public, UFC president, Dana White, has already commented on the case. The director announced that Sonnen's contract is suspended until the fighter resolves his problems with the courts. With the decision, speculation about a possible confrontation between the North American and Japanese Yoshihiro Akiyama at UFC 128 ends.
“Sonnen has gone through a lot of problems in recent months. I believe this is his time to fully focus on his personal life before fighting in the UFC again,” said White.
In an interview with the local press, Sonnen pleaded guilty to charges of illegal property sales. The fighter's trial is scheduled to take place next March. The suspension due to the use of anabolic steroids in his fight at UFC 117 ends this February.
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