Chael Sonnen Can Re-Apply for a License in California on May 18, 2012

The saga of Chael Sonnen continued on Thursday when the California State Athletic Commission determined the timeline for the fighter’s punishment.

On a vote of 4-1 on Wednesday, the commission upheld Sonnen’s indefinite suspension within the state, effectively putting him out of action.

The commission has now finalized Sonnen’s timeline as to when he would be able to re-apply for a license in the state. According to the California State Athletic Commission, Sonnen’s suspension will run through his current license expires on June 29, 2011.

Folllowing the expiration of his license, Sonnen will not be able to re-apply for a new license in the state until at least May 18, 2012. At that time, Sonnne can re-apply for a license in the state of California, but there are still no guarantees he will be approved.

It was previously believed that Sonnen would not be eligible to re-apply for a license until June 2012, presumably one year after his current license expires, but the commission ruled on Thursday to make it one year from the date of the hearing.

With Sonnen’s suspension and licensing issue in California, the fighter can technically go to other states to try and be approved for a license, but most states will likely honor the ruling form California.

The verdict handed down on Wednesday may have cost Sonnen not only a chance to coach on the 14th season of “The Ultimate Fighter,” but his shot at a number one contender’s match against Michael Bisping.

As of now, Sonnen is effectively on the shelf unless the UFC opts to pursue a fight for him in a state that would give him a license or in an area such as the United Kingdom where no athletic commission is present.

Damon Martin is the lead staff writer and radio host for MMAWeekly.com.
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