MICHAEL Bisping’s last opponent has been suspended after testing positive for steroids.

Chris Leben’s drugs use was uncovered in tests following his loss by unanimous decision to Bisping, from Clitheroe.

Leben has apologised to Ultimate Fighting Championships bosses and fans and vowed to get his life back on track.

Bisping defeated Leben at Birmingham’s National Indoor Arena last month in front of 9,514 fans and millions around the world watching on television.

The pair had been due to fight in the summer but the bout was postponed after the American was jailed for a breach of parole imposed for a previous drink drive conviction.

UFC president Dana White said he was ‘disappointed’ with Leben ‘who had made great strides getting his life back on track’.

He said: “To his credit, he has taken responsibility for his actions and is accepting the punishment that has been handed down.

“But as always, the UFC puts the safety of its athletes first and foremost, and we won’t tolerate anyone using performance enhancing drugs in our organization.”

As well as the suspension, Leben must give up a third of his fight purse.

Leben said: “During my time off from fighting, I want to speak to kids about the dangers of using performance enhancing agents and let them know it just doesn’t get you ahead in life.

“I apologize to the UFC and everyone who supported me in my fight in England. I hope to work through this and get back to fighting soon.”

The remaining 21 fighters on the UFC 89 card passed their pre and post fight drug tests.