Chael Sonnen news reveals that "The American Gangster" was hired by sports broadcasting giant ESPN after he was fired by FOX Sports in June. The former UFC title contender also promised that he will not be shying away from talking about topics related to Performance Enhancing Drugs despite the fact that it was the main reason for his decision to walk away from mixed martial arts competition.
Sonnen was let go of his contract as an analyst in FOX Sports' "UFC Tonight" show, after failing a second drug test in June, which subsequently led to his decision to retire from the sport. He was also given a two-year suspension by the Nevada Athletic Commission, a month after.
Chael Sonnen news reports that "The American Gangster" initially failed the pre-fight drug test for UFC 175, wherein he was slated to face Wanderlei Silva, who ironically has drug-testing issues as well.
In a July report by Bloody Elbow, Sonnen was found positive for Clomiphene and Anastrozole in February, but failed another drug-test in June for Erythropoietin and Human Growth Hormones.
Chael Sonnen news now reveals that ESPN has decided to employ the beleaguered fighter, wherein he will make his debut as part of the commentary team who will cover Saturday's UFC 180 card.
In an interview with The Associated Press, Sonnen expressed his excitement in the new lease in his career life that was granted by the major sports network.
"I love to break down fights," Sonnen said. "I love to watch them. The fact that ESPN will allow me to do that on the air in a fancy suit and call it a job, it's what I would be doing at home anyway."
As a mixed martial arts journalist, a wide variety of topics surrounding the sport are expected to be tackled, including the rampant Performance Enhancing Drug use. For his part, however, Sonnen says he will not hesitate from talking about such topics, despite falling victim to it himself.
"I wouldn't shy away from a topic, even if it's one that brought me shame," he added. "There are topics like that, and there are opponents I'm going to have to cover that have also embarrassed themselves, but that's part of the sport, man. I cherish those moments."
