Chael Sonnen's Suspension Is Complete: What's Next for the UFC Middleweight?

As of Thursday, March 3, Chael Sonnen had completed the six-month suspension that was handed to him by the California State Athletic Commission.

MMAFighting reports that CSAC executive officer George Dodd informed the Web site that Sonnen had fulfilled the terms of his suspension and would be able to apply to have his license reinstated.

"If Mr. Sonnen wants to be licensed here in California, he will have to appear before the commission to regain his license," Dodd informed MMAFighting.

"Every other state will have to make a determination on their process for licensing Mr. Sonnen."

Sonnen was originally handed a one-year suspension from the CSAC due to a positive drug test following his loss to UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva at UFC 127, which took place in August of last year.

Sonnen's troest revealed elevated levels of testosterone, which he and his physician argued were due to hypogonadism, a condition that results in low testosterone levels.

The treatment for this is testosterone replacement therapy, which Sonnen, his lawyers and doctor claimed he was undergoing. They claimed the treatment was the reason behind Sonnen's elevated testosterone levels.

Ultimately, Sonnen's suspension was reduced to six months for not properly documenting the therapy he was undergoing.

The end of his suspension does not mean that we will see Sonnen's immediate return to the UFC. Sonnen still has a federal money laundering guilty plea hanging over his head.

According to The Oregonian, Sonnen pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering in relation to a 2006 home sale.

Sonnen's sentencing in that case is set to take place on March 28. The government is recommending two years probation in the case.

In early February, UFC president Dana White told MMAFighting, "There's no timetable (for Sonnen's return). We still have to see what happens with all his personal problems."

While Sonnen is no longer under suspension by the CSAC, he still seems to be quite a while away from returning to active mixed martial arts action.

Edmonton Oilers Columbus Blue Jackets Carolina Hurricanes Calgary Flames