Report: Melissa Gatto Failed Drug Test Ahead Of UFC 239

Melissa Gatto and Julia Avila were scheduled to meet at UFC 239, but Gatto would be pulled from the card and replaced by Pannie Kianzad.

It was unknown at the time as to why Gatto had been pulled from the bout, but a report from ESPN is stating that Gatto was removed from the card due to a failed drug test.

Conor McGregor Content Removed From 'Hitman' Following Sexual Assault Verdict

NAC Executive Director Bob Bennett also revealed to ESPN that Gatto will have a hearing this August with the commission in regards to the failed drug test.

Gatto would issue the following statement to MMA Fighting:

“Unfortunately, my debut in the world’s biggest promotion has been postponed again. I can’t find words to describe how sad I am. Throughout my entire fight career I’ve been transparent and hard with myself. I was notified on my last USADA test that I had ingested a prohibited substance. I know I’ve never intentionally used any substance that is not allowed by USADA. I always ask them about any substance I have to use. We believe one of our supplements could have been contaminated. My team and I are working to make sure this situation is resolved as soon as possible so I can come back soon to do what I love.”

UFC 239 was the second card that Gatto had been pulled from, but she was also removed from UFC 237 due to an infection.

Get exclusive pro wrestling content on Fightful Select, our premium news service! Click here to learn more.