UFC on Fuel 6

Thiago Silva banned for six months

ESPN staff

November 22, 2012 « Broad a doubt for second Test | TEST »

Thiago Silva's fight with Stanislav Nedkov has been called a 'no-decision' © Getty Images

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Thiago Silva has been suspended for six months after testing positive for marijuana metabolites following his fight against Stanislav Nedkov earlier this month.

Silva (15-3) defeated Nedkov via submission in the third round of their co-main event at the UFC on Fuel event in Macau. The decision, however, will be changed to a no-contest due to Silva's suspension.

UFC officials confirmed the light-heavyweight's failed drug test and suspension to ESPN on Wednesday. Silva also will attend a drug rehab program.

"The UFC organisation has a strict, consistent policy against the use of illegal drugs," the promotion stated in a release. "Silva has admitted to taking the banned substance and agreed to participate in an approved drug-rehabilitation program and serve the six-month suspension."

The suspension dates retroactively to November 10. Silva must pass a drug test prior to fighting again.

The Brazilian was suspended for one year following a win over Brandon Vera in January 2011 for submitting a fake urine sample to the Nevada State Athletic Commission. The win was later changed to a no-contest.

This article first appeared on ESPN.com