Chad Mendes notified of potential anti-doping violation UFC officials announced late last week that featherweight Chad Mendes has been flagged for a potential failed out-of-competition drug test performed by UFC anti-doping partner USADA. “It is important to note that, under the UFC anti-doping policy, there is a full and fair review process that is afforded to all athletes before any sanctions are imposed,” read a statement released today by the UFC. “Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time as the process moves forward.” Mendes (17-4) is coming off a first round knockout loss to Frankie Edgar back in December at the TUF 22 Finale. He’s 1-3 in his last four fights. Michael Arrant steps in for Thiago Meller against John Howard at WSOF 31 MMAJunkie reports that Michael Arrant will replace injured Thiago Meller against John Howard at WSOF 31, in a middleweight bout. Arrant (15-10) heads into this matchup off a loss to UFC veteran Brock Jardine, which subsequently snapped a six-fight win streak. Howard (23-12) makes his WSOF debut and will be looking for just his second win in his last six fights. WSOF 31 takes place June 17 at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Conn. Here’s an updated look at the card. MAIN CARD (NBCSN, 9 pm ET) Champ Blagoi Ivanov vs. Josh Copeland – for heavyweight title Jason High vs. Mike Ricci Michael Arrant vs. John Howard Sheymon Moraes vs. Luis Palomino Phil Hawes vs. Joshua Key PRELIMINARY CARD (MMAjunkie, 6 pm ET) Lorenzo Hood vs. Tyler King Juliano Coutinho vs. Justin Willis Tom Marcellino vs. Devin Powell Robert Fonseca vs. Sean Lally Saul Almeida vs. Bruce Boyington Rodrigo Almeida vs. Ben Pierre-Saint Christian Torres vs. Sam Watford CES 36 Highlights
