In the aftermath of Strikeforce Challengers 18, seven fighters have been handed down medical suspensions from the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC). The suspensions were announced Monday morning.
Joe Duarte, Nate James, and Keith Berry felt the brunt of the announcement. All three men are suspended until February 9th due to injuries suffered during their bouts.
The NSAC decreed that Duarte must have his injured left middle finger x-rayed. If positive, the finger must be cleared by an orthopedic physician before the suspension can be lifted.
James has been ordered to undergo x-rays on his right foot and ankle. If positive, both injuries must be cleared by an orthopedic physician before the suspension can be lifted. Regardless, James must remain inactive until September 12th -- with no contact prior to September 3rd -- due to a scalp laceration incurred in his fight against Danillo Villefort.
The commission also requires that Berry undergoes an x-ray for his injured left hand. If positive, it must be cleared by an orthopedic physician before the suspension can be lifted. Notwithstanding, he still faces a minimum suspension until September 12th -- with no contact prior to September 3rd -- due to a laceration above his left eyebrow suffered in his undercard fight against Gian Villante.
Light heavyweight prospect Derrick Mehmen faces a much lighter sentence, but still has been suspended until September 27th due to a left eye laceration suffered in his televised bout against Roy Jones. Mehmen is restricted from contact until September 12th.
Three of the seven fighters -- Lukasz Les, Chad Leonhardt, and Sterling Ford -- have been suspended until September 12th -- with no contact prior to September 3rd -- as a precautionary measure.