Fil-Am Vera gets reinstated in UFC

Pow Salud April 10, 2011

source: Dennis Gasgonia | abs-cbnnews.com

Filipino-American mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter Brandon “The Truth” Vera got his Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) contract reinstated after his most recent opponent, Thiago Silva of Brazil, admitted to using steroids.

“I got a second chance, they gave it back to me… Refreshed, renewed... I'm back,” the visibly relieved Vera told MMAfighting.com.

"I was on my deathbed... they pulled the plug, I died. [Now] I've been resuscitated, I'm back baby. It's a good feeling... really, really good feeling," he added.

Vera was reinstated after his loss via unanimous decision in his fight with Silva has been officially changed to "no-contest."

The Fil-Am MMA fighter was let go by the UFC after being dominated by the bigger and stronger Silva in UFC 125 last January.

The loss was Vera’s third straight defeat since losing to UFC legend Randy Couture in 2009.

Silva, however, admitted using steroids when the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) discovered that he provided fake urine during testing.

The Brazilian reasoned that he took prescription steroid prior his fight against Vera due to three injured discs on his back.

He then attempted to mask the steroid use by purchasing a fake urine sample, prompting NSAC to suspend Silva’s license for a year.

The Brazilian fighter was also fined a total of $33,750.

Vera broke into the international MMA scene by scoring successive victories against Justin Eilers, Assuerio Silva and Frank Mir in the late 2000's.

Vera assured his fans he'll be back on the winning track.

"They (UFC) gave me another chance so I'm gonna take full advantage," said the 6'3" Fil-Am.

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