In a shocking turn of events, former LFA flyweight champion Felipe Bunes has been slapped with a six-month suspension and a $326 fine by the Nevada Athletic Commission for a failed drug test just before his scheduled UFC debut. The commission confirmed the suspension and penalty during their monthly meeting on Tuesday, casting a cloud over Bunes’ highly anticipated debut in the UFC.
The failed drug test was a result of Bunes testing positive for GW1516, a prohibited metabolic modulator. This revelation comes as a disappointment to many MMA fans who were eager to witness Bunes’ skills in the octagon.
Felipe Bunes (13-6 MMA, 0-0 UFC) had recently signed with the UFC in June, gaining attention for his short-notice replacement opportunity against Zhalgas Zhumagulov at UFC on ESPN 47. However, the bout was abruptly canceled after Bunes submitted a urinalysis that tested positive for the banned substance.
Hi everyone. My fight has been cancelled due to a drug test subject to further analysis. I have provided all the necessary information and I hope to have all this sorted out in the coming days so I can fight soon.
Thank you.
— Felipinho Bunes (@BunesFelipinho) June 16, 2023
What further sets this case apart is Bunes’ decision to go public with the information surrounding his failed drug test. In a rare move, he publicly acknowledged the situation and expressed his willingness to cooperate with the commission’s proceedings.
Prior to joining the UFC, the 33-year-old Bunes had an impressive track record, winning three out of his four previous fights. His journey to the UFC included a stint with the Russian promotion ACA (formerly known as ACB) from 2018 to 2021. Bunes has trained alongside the renowned Pitbull Brothers in Brazil and has also spent time honing his skills at Fight Ready in Scottsdale, Arizona.
This suspension will keep Felipe Bunes out of the octagon until December 7, leaving fans and the fighter himself eagerly awaiting his return and a chance at redemption.
