The California State Athletic Commission reversed a May 18th decision that put Chael Sonnen's career on hold as a look at the rules related to his suspension revealed that he will in fact be able to re apply for the license anytime after June 29th, but would have to appear before the commission for a license hearing.
MMAJunkie.com spoke to CSAC Executuve Director George Dodd who breaks down why the change happened:
“Upon reviewing the May 18, 2011 decision of the commission, an error in the applicability of Rule 399 was made,” stated a release issued today by the commission. “The rule states that, 'Any applicant who has been denied an application for a license may not file a similar application until one year from the date of the last previous denial by the commission. Any application filed within the one year period may be denied without the necessity of a hearing. Anyone who has had his license revoked may not petition for reinstatement or apply for a new license until one year after the date of such revocation. Any petition for reinstatement filed within the one year period may be denied without the necessity of a hearing.'
“Since the commission did not revoke or deny Mr. Sonnen's license, the rule does not apply.”
The release noted that Sonnen will need to appear before the commission once again should he decide to apply for a license in California.
“If the commission denies his application, Mr. Sonnen will have to wait one year from the date of the denial,” the release stated.
