The Brazilian MMA Sports Court (STJDMMA) has released a statement involving Kelvin Gastelum’s suspension.
STJDMMA has suspended Gastelum for 90 days after testing positive for marijuana use. Gastelum was pulled from a fight against former UFC Middleweight Champion Anderson Silva at UFC 212 in Brazil due to his failed test.
STJDMMA sent a statement to MMAfighting.com regarding Gastelum’s suspension.
“1. (Gastelum) initially told CABMMA and STJD that he used a medication that had THC – in other words, for medicinal use only.
2. Today (Monday), he changes his version and says he smoked.
3. He claims that he has a license to use marijuana in California, however, he NEVER presented that license to CABMMA and STJD.
4. His license is only valid in California, since each state and country has its laws.
5. In addition to not submitting his license, he never informed the name of the medication, the dosage (medical prescription) and name/information of the doctor and why it would be necessary for him to use the substance.
Finally, there are innumerable arguments that he manifests that have no foundation and are supported by lies. To make it worse, he claims that he smoked three weeks before the fight. That dosage far superior denies that thesis.
It sounds weird an athlete to seek for a plea agreement, sign it, agree with everything, and then go to the media to complain only about the fine.
Professional athletes have the power and duty to be an example. Fans can’t be fans of bad examples. Thousands of people, including children, might have as a reference or incentive to use drugs associated to sports, as something beneficial or to succeed.”
Gastelum’s suspension will expire on June 11. He has recently stated that he would like to reschedule a fight with Silva for some time in the summer.
