Now we know why David Branch didn’t compete at UFC on ESPN+ 16 as originally planned.
On Wednesday, the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency announced that Branch, 37, has been suspended two years after failing an out-of-competition drug test. Branch tested positive for the banned substance ipamorelin, which stimulates HGH production.
Branch’s ban is retroactive to the date of his provisional suspension, making him ineligible to return until July 26, 2021.
Branch had been booked to fight Andrew Sanchez at last Saturday’s UFC on ESPN+ 16 card in Vancouver, but it was revealed on Aug. 1 that he wouldn’t compete. No reason for his withdrawal was given at that time.
After much success fighting under the WSOF banner, where he went 10-0 and won the promotion’s light heavyweight and middleweight titles, Branch’s UFC tenure has been rocky since joining the promotion in May 2017. He’s 2-3, with all of his losses coming via stoppage.
Branch currently is on a two-fight skid, losing by TKO and submission, respectively, to Jared Cannonier and Jack Hermansson.
