Barnett to appeal failed drug test

By Hakon on July 23, 2009

Josh Barnett will appeal his positive drug test that has forced him out of a fight against Fedor Emelianenko at the Afflicition ‘Trilogy’ event on Aug. 1 in California.

The California State Athletic Commission confirmed on Wednesday that Barnett has tested positive for a performance enhancing and prohibited drug.

Barnett tested positive for an anabolic steroid known as Drostanolone Propionate.

“No matter what happens with this, I can assure you I will clear my name,” Barnett told Sherdog.com Tuesday evening. “This will not be something that I am defined by.”

“It’s our understanding that Josh has taken further measures to validate the results of the test, and if the results stand, then we’re deeply disappointed,” Affliction VP Tom Atencio said Wednesday.

Atencio has confirmed that the failed drug test has forced him to find a new opponent for Fedor.

“We’re definitely moving ahead,” Atencio said. “I have to move ahead.”

Tags: Fedor Emelianenko, Josh Barnett