UFC's Sherk, Franca Busted For Steroids

Two mixed martial arts fighters, Sean Sherk and Hermes Franca, ;

They have been suspended and fined for use of steroids, stated the California State Athletic Commission on Thursday.

“This is nuts,” said Armando Garcia, CSAC executive director. “I’m very disappointed.”

Sherk defended his Ultimate Fighting Championship title against Brazil’s Franca on July 7, 2007 in Sacramento. The five-round bout between 155-pounders ended in a win for Sherk.

The state conducted drug tests and found Sherk with traces of Nandrolone Metabolite and Franca with Drostanolone,  an anabolic agent.

Sherk has been fined $2,500 and suspended until July 7, 2008 plus 10 days. Franca has also been fined $2,500 and suspended until July 5, 2008.

“Our policy on fighters using steroids, illegal drugs or any banned substance remains the same – you cannot use them,” said UFC President Dana White. “It's not only unhealthy and unsafe, it is against the law. The UFC fully supports the commission's efforts and we will continue to take measures that keep this sport clean and keep the athletes safe.”

Since March 31, when steroid testing began in California, there have been 30 drug violations detected by CSAC. Not all have been for steroids. Most have come from other drugs such as marijuana.

This week Royce Gracie’s fine and suspension became final when he did not file an appeal. Gracie fought on the June 2 MMA show at the Los Angeles Coliseum.