Anderson Silva on testing positive: ‘I really made a mistake by taking a substance that was tainted’

Anderson Silva says he has a clear mind despite the verbal jabs getting thrown at him from opponent Michael Bisping. Silva spoke on his positive test for banned substances during the UFC Fight Night 83 conference call (transcribed by MMA Fighting):

“I don’t have to prove absolutely anything to Bisping or anyone else besides myself,” Silva said. “I never needed any illegal substance, steroid or anything like that. I made a mistake, and everyone can make mistakes. I never tested positive before. I was questioned by the commissioner, and he was arrogant and ironic by asking me if I had ever been randomly tested before. I said no, because I never had any problems with doping and I never used it. My body is the same ever since I started fighting until now.”

Bisping insinuated more steroid talk during the call, but Silva chose not to engage in the verbal battle.

“I don’t like to talk too much, to promote (a fight) with talking. I like to go there and do my job. The result is the same, you can win or lose. And that’s what I’m going to do.”

“I’m ready to be tested at any moment. I’m not perfect, I’m not a saint. I really made a mistake by taking a substance that was tainted. I never intended to expose my personal life to clear the facts the way I did. I never took any kind of steroid. My lawyer and the guy that tested the supplements I took were not able to prove the truth. My suspension is coming to an end. I made a mistake and I’m paying for it. I’m ready to fight again, and I’m happy about it.”

Silva says that people can believe what they want, but ultimately he knows what he did, or didn’t do.

“Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, can think what they want. I’m ready to be tested. They can test me everyday leading up to the fight. Unfortunately, some people will think I’m a cheater and others won’t, but the important thing in all of this is my conscience. There’s no lie in this sport. You can’t lie in there.”

Do you believe Silva’s supplement was the reason for his positive test for banned substances? Share your thoughts in the comments!