PFL welterweight Glaico Franca suspended by Nevada – but the order has already expired

In an odd set of circumstances, PFL welterweight Glaico Franca today accepted a nine-month suspension from the Nevada Athletic Commission – the length of which has already expired.

Franca tested positive for stanozolol, a banned steroid, in association with an Oct. 11 appearance at PFL 2019, Playoffs 1 in Las Vegas. Franca fought twice that night, scoring a majority decision win over Andre Fialho before losing a majority decision to David Michaud.

The results of the test were first made public in November.

At the time, Franca claimed innocence and pointed to potential supplement contamination as the culprit. Now, nearly 10 months after the event, “Brazilian Zombie” has accepted his punishment.

NAC officials were apologetic for the delay in settling the matter but said that Franca struggled to find a lab in Brazil suited to properly test his supplements. Then, of course, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic complicated matters further. Despite the challenges, the commission stated today’s order was “a fair and equitable resolution.”

Due to the delay in settlement, Franca’s nine-month suspension was applied retroactively and actually expired on July 12, meaning he is no longer under the order. However, before he fights again in Nevada, Franca must pay a fine of $7,500 and attorney’s fees of $617.78.

Additionally, Franca – a “TUF: Brazil 4” cast member who previously fought three times under the UFC banner, as well – must submit to and pay for drug tests 30 days, 15 days and 3 days ahead of his next scheduled contest and prove himself clean of all performance-enhancing drugs and drugs of abuse.