Sonnen will take 'good look' at MMA return if he passes drug tests
Navigating the truth when Chael Sonnen speaks is always tricky, and his latest comeback chatter is no different.
Appearing on The MMA Hour on Monday, Sonnen confirmed that he is undergoing USADA drug testing that would allow him to begin the process of possibly fighting again if he's clean.
Emphasis should be put on the word "potential," as Sonnen did not officially announce a return to action after almost three years away from MMA competition.
"Chael Sonnen's going to give it a good look," said Sonnen. "That's just the truth, I'm not committed to it."
As of July, Sonnen has finished serving his two-year suspension for failing multiple drug tests during his last run with the UFC.
At 39 years old, it might be a long shot for Sonnen to reclaim his status as a top contender, but he's going through the proper protocol to keep the possibility alive.
"I'd sure like to have that option," said Sonnen. "That's the whole point is to have that option. I believe that I'm done with MMA and that's just candidly, but I don't have that option. I am done unless you can get a license. I would like to have the ability to choose."
When news first broke of Sonnen submitting himself to USADA drug testing, he sounded pessimistic about his chances. Even in a best-case scenario, Sonnen won't be reinstated in time to compete at an upcoming card in his home state of Portland, Ore.
Not that Sonnen was aiming for that specific date, since by his account he accidentally entered himself into the testing pool when he inquired about taking a test to see what he still had in his system.
Even if the USADA testers do find something, Sonnen is hoping that they're lenient given his complicated chemical history.
"I don't want to be tested like everybody else. I want it to be on a curve," said Sonnen. "Like, 'Oh you had seven things (in your system) last time, this time you've only got three, that's pretty good.' That's the kind of test I'm looking for and I'm not sure that's out there."