According to Sherdog.com, Phil Baroni has had his suspension reduced by the CSAC from one year to six months. Interestingly, the suspension will be retroactive; this means that the time Baroni has spent awaiting trial will be credited to him, and count as part of his served suspension:

Phil Baroni, who tested positive for boldenone and stanozolol metabolites following his submission defeat to Frank Shamrock on June 22 in San Jose, has had his suspension reduced from one year to six months, the California State Athletic Commission ruled on Wednesday afternoon.

The suspension will run retroactive from June 22, making Baroni, 31, eligible to return in December. The New Yorker’s fine of $2500 was upheld.

The CSAC shot down two motions: one to upload the year-long suspension and the other to lift all sanctions. The third and final motion had three votes in favor, two against and one tally for an extension.

This is good news for Baroni and Sean Sherk as well. Baroni's case serves as a real precedent for Sherk. It is likely that Sherk, if found guilty, would be eligible to fight again in January, meaning that a fight between he and BJ Penn could still take place soon.

Thanks to fiveouncesofpain.com for their contribution to this story.

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