UFC on Versus 4: Nate Marquardt Had 6 Weeks to Get Medical Clearance

MMA Junkie, who initially broke the story that Nate Marquardt was withdrawing from his UFC Live main event fight with Rick Story, has revealed some more details on the situation.

The Pennsylvania Athletic Commission has Marquardt on indefinite suspension, and executive director Gregory Sirb explained that Marquardt simply did not meet certain requirements.

"When he meets those requirements, he'll be taken off. How long of a suspension (it will be) is up to him," Sirb said.

Unfortunately for fans, Sirb is legally obligated to keep the exact details under wraps. 

However, Sirb’s tone seemed to be one of surprise when discussing what he could in regards to Nate Marquardt.

Sirb indicated that the commission gave the former middleweight contender “every opportunity” to meet the necessary medical requirements, and gave him until 4 pm yesterday to get the situation under control.

“(It's) pretty straightforward stuff. You've got to meet these requirements, and there's no ifs, ands or buts about it. Unfortunately, he did not. I felt for the kid. I really did. He knew about it, and I think he was trying," Sirb explained in Marquardt’s defense.

Interestingly, Sirb said the process was “about a month and half” and that the PSAC kept in touch with the UFC “each step of the way.”

 “He knew the situation, there was no surprise…everybody knew. I think everybody assumed he was going to be able to qualify," a perplexed Sirb indicated.

Marquardt and his camp have chosen not to speak about the matter and are not expected to appear on the UFC Live broadcast.

UFC President Dana White has also remained tight-lipped regarding the situation, aside from the fact that Marquardt’s offense was worthy of him being fired from the fight promotion. 

Sirb concluded by saying that Marquardt could be eligible to fight again as soon as tomorrow. 

"He needs to show us a new report," Sirb commented.

"When that report comes in and he meets our requirements, which could even be tomorrow, we'll take him off. It could be two months, but it's an indefinite suspension until he submits that report we're looking for."