The UFC announced Tuesday that Brazilian welterweight Viscardi Andrade has been flagged for a "potential Anti-Doping Policy violation" stemming from an out-of-competition drug test.

Andrade competed for the last time on March 19, defeating Richard Walsh via unanimous decision at UFC Fight Night 85 in Australia, was randomly drug tested 12 days before the contest. The sample was tested by a lab in Rio de Janeiro.

In a statement, Andrade denied using banned substances.

On Tuesday morning, April 12, I was surprised by a notification from USADA informing me of a possible violation in the sample collected on March 7, before my last UFC fight, a win over Rich Walsh. According to USADA, an institution I respect and know about the credibility, I violated the agency’s anti-doping policy. However, I deny, with all my character, ingesting any substance that violates their terms. Because of that, I requested the B sample to be tested and totally believe in my acquittal in this imbroglio. During my training camp for the fight, I did the same procedures I did in 10 years of my career. Same food, supplementation, everything approved in several anti-doping exams, many of them already as a UFC fighter, and followed by professional doctors and nutritionists. More than the UFC welterweight belt, today, I wish this entire situation to be cleared so I can come back as soon as possible to do what I love, which is fighting, and continue my professional career. I’m sorry for what happened, but all I have to do is wait for the B sample result. I thank my fans, friends and family who sent me messages of support and comfort and trust in my innocence since this news came out. You will see me back in action again soon. Thank you.

Check the UFC statement below:

The UFC organization was notified today that the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) has informed Viscardi Andrade of a potential Anti-Doping Policy violation stemming from an out-of-competition sample collection on March 7, 2016. The sample was collected from Andrade in Brazil and analyzed at the WADA accredited laboratory in Rio de Janeiro, and recently reported to USADA as containing a prohibited substance. USADA, the independent administrator of the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, will handle the results management and appropriate adjudication of this case involving Andrade. It is important to note that, under the UFC Anti-Doping Policy, there is a full and fair legal process that is afforded to all athletes before any sanctions are imposed, including any ruling on Andrade’s victory over Richard Walsh in Brisbane, Australia on March 19, 2016. Additional information will be provided at the appropriate time as the process moves forward.

Andrade (19-6) currently holds a 3-1 UFC record with wins over Bristol Marunde, Gasan Umalatov and Walsh.

The UFC announced last Friday that former heavyweight champion Frank Mir, who lost to Mark Hunt on the same night, was also flagged for a potential anti-doping violation.