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“I Am Devastated That This Has Happened…”: Mayra Bueno Silva Comes Clean on Her Failed Drug Test During the Holly Holm Fight Week

Published 08/21/2023, 11:13 PM EDT

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In an unexpected turn of events, Mayra Bueno Silva, also known as ‘Sheetara,’ finds herself in a challenging situation after having a significant victory over a former champion. Just days after her impressive win over Holly Holm at UFC on ESPN 49, Silva has revealed that she failed a drug test taken the week of her fight against Holly Holm. 

It was the first main event appearance of the 31-year-old Brazilian, who defeated Holm via second-round submission. However, this recent revelation has overshadowed her impressive performance. The fighter took to Instagram and stated that she tested positive for a substance consistent with the prescription medication she takes for ADHD.

Mayra Bueno Silva addresses fans

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Mayra has revealed on Instagram that she failed a pre-fight drug test leading up to the bout. Addressing her fans, she has shared a series of text-on-picture messages with the caption, “If you are facing any health issues, don’t be shy about seeking help. Living well and healthy is everyone’s right.”

 

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Silva said she has been dealing with the disorder her entire life and that it affects her in a multitude of ways. As per Mayra, she has provided a “plethora of documents and explanations” to USADA and the Nevada State Athletic Commission detailing her condition and her decision to take the medication.

“I discontinued this medication at the beginning of fight week like I always have in the past,” Silva said. “So while it appeared in a small amount in my system, I am told by experts that it would not have an effect on my in-competition performance at that level.”

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Emphasizing that she is devastated by the situation, Silva highlighted that she looks forward to coming to a resolution and putting this situation behind her. She added that she is still the “next champion” and is ready to fight again.

A blow to her rankings

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The victory over Holly propelled Silva to the No.3 spot in the women’s bantamweight rankings and was considered to be a top contender for the vacant title. Now, with this revelation of a failed drug test, she faces a major setback for her career.

However, it is unclear what the consequences of Silva’s failed drug test will be. The fighter could face a suspension from the UFC, or she could be stripped of her win over Holm.

In another similar incident, Daniel Rodriguez, who had a fight scheduled against Santiago Ponzinibbio, tested positive for a banned substance and is now ineligible to compete on 16th September.

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Coming back to the Brazilian, only time will tell what happens next for Silva. However, she has highlighted her commitment to clearing her name and getting back in the octagon. What do you think the consequences of Mayra Bueno Silva’s failed drug test should be? Comment below.

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Written by:

Hiteshwar Sharma

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Hiteshwar Sharma is a UFC writer at EssentiallySports. An avid MMA enthusiast with a passion for UFC, he has been engrossed in the world of Mixed Martial Arts since 2016. Among the myriad of fighters who have graced the octagon, none shine as brightly as the legendary Conor "The Notorious" McGregor in his eyes.
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Edited by:

Kratika Vajpayee