LOS ANGELES (Aug. 21, 2008) – The California State Athletic Commission announced Thursday morning it had suspended Antonio Silva for 12 months and fined him $2,500 for testing positive for the banned anabolic substance Boldenone after a fight on July 26 in Stockton.

Shortly thereafter, Silva’s co-manager Alex Davis issued a statement claiming not only that his fighter was clean but that he had no idea how Silva could have tested positive.

Here is what Jeremy Lappen, Head of EliteXC Fight Operations, had to say in response to Thursday’s events:

"We respect the California commission and the job they do. We always enjoy working with them and work very well together. The illegal use of steroids is a problem in all major sports, including mixed martial arts. We certainly do not condone the use of steroids.

“But we also support, trust and have confidence in our fighter, Antonio Silva, who has denied ever taken any illegal substance, including steroids, and is prepared to challenge the results of the California Commission.

“So until all the facts are known and a final decision is rendered, EliteXC will reserve making any further comments at this time.’’ {plug}