After learning that Sean Sherk was stripped of the UFC Lightweight Title, UFC issued the following article:

Penn, Stevenson to Battle for UFC Lightweight Title on January 19th

By Thomas Gerbasi

After the California State Athletic Commission decision on Dec. 4 to reduce, but uphold, Sean Sherk’s suspension for a positive banned substance test, the Ultimate Fighting Championship organization withdrew recognition from Sherk as UFC Lightweight Champion.

BJ Penn and Joe Stevenson will now compete for the 155-pound championship in the main event of January 19th’s UFC 80: RAPID FIRE card in Newcastle, England.

“I have nothing but respect for Sean Sherk and I believe he’s been honest throughout this whole process,” said UFC President Dana White. “But BJ Penn and Joe Stevenson will be fighting for the lightweight title at UFC 80 on January 19th and Sean Sherk will fight the winner for the title.”

Sherk tested positive for the banned substance Nandrolone after his July 7th win over Hermes Franca and was originally suspended for a year and fined $2,500. After a series of postponed hearings, Sherk had his day in front of the CSAC on December 4th and his suspension was reduced to six months. Sherk will be eligible to return to competition in January.