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MMA's Melendez tests positive for banned substance

By Alex Butler

SAN DIEGO, July 6 (UPI) -- Gilbert Melendez will be yanked from his upcoming fight for testing positive for exogenous origin of testosterone metabolites, according to Fox Sports.

Melendez was found positive after his loss to Eddie Alvarez in UFC 188. He will be suspended for one year for violating the UFC fighter code of conduct policy.

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Melendez, 33, was set to fight Al Iaquinta on July 15 at UFC Fight Night in San Diego. The fight was a co-main event fight with Mir. vs. Duffy.

"Regrettably, I tested positive in my post fight urine sample for UFC 188," Melendez said in a statement Monday. "I did not inject anything, but I am responsible and accept the consequences for the results. I will make sure I am better educated about the products I use and their implications.

"Going forward I will ensure no products I use will contain banned substances. I am sincerely apologetic to everyone who supports me, including my fans, sponsors and the UFC. I value your trust and respect and will do everything in my power to keep it."

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The UFC is searching for a new opponent to face Iaquinta, according to UFC.com.

Melendez is a former Strikeforce lightweight champion.

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