Chael Sonnen will receive license for UFC on FOX Sports 1 in Boston
By Josh Sanchez
Apr 26, 2013; Newark, NJ, USA; Chael Sonnen weighs in for his light heavyweight title bout against Jon Jones (not pictured) at the Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
There was some concern that the UFC’s return to Boston would be without the headlining bout of Chael Sonnen vs. Shogun Rua after a union filed a complaint and Sonnen was left without his license. However, Sonnen appeared before the commission today and after the hearing concluded it was determined that he would be receiving his license and be able to fight next weekend.
From Steve Marrocco of MMA Junkie, Sonnen’s manager says that the fighter will be licensed for the main event bout against Shogun.
Chael Sonnen's manager tells me MSAC meeting wrapped. His understanding that Chael will be licensed for FS 1. Check http://t.co/0DFTNhKyia
— Steven Marrocco (@MMAFightingSM) August 8, 2013
Marrocco also shared some info from a letter that was filed as the complaint to the Massachusetts State Athletic Commission. The letter cited previous money laundering charges that Sonnen faced as a reason that he should not receive his license.
"“Mr. Sonnen has repeatedly made shockingly derogatory statements about women, people of color, homosexuals, immigrants and other minorities. He has tested positive for a banned substance, made public remarks promoting criminal violence and has been convicted of money laundering.”"
Luckily for the fans that already have their tickets, the show will go on.
UFC Fight Night 26 will air on FOX Sports 1 on August 17 as the new sports network officially launches.