Daniel Pindea out of PFL Finals following failed drug test

One of the most promising fighters in the PFL this year has ended his run in tragic fashion. MMAJunkie was the first to report that Daniel Pineda failed a Nevada Athletic Commission-provided drug test.

While Pineda has since denied those claims on social media, it has become apparent he will not be fighting Lance Palmer for $1 million and the PFL Featherweight Title.

https://twitter.com/DanielPitPineda/status/1195118362403188738?s=20

Pineda’s (28-13) inspiring story will now be forgotten about. Not even competing during the PFL’s regular season run this year, he managed to sneak his way into the playoffs thanks to an injured Damon Jackson. Competing in the two-fight series in Las Vegas, Pineda finished Movlid Khaybulaev with a round-one knockout in only 29 seconds. He then submitted favorite Jeremy Kennedy in the first round to advance towards the finals.

An alum of UFC and Bellator, Pineda has not protested the claims, making this transition an easy one. On his Instagram, Palmer stated he will be facing Alex Gilpin in the finals. Palmer has faced Gilpin twice in 2019, beating him both times via unanimous decision.

The PFL Finals will be taking place on New Year’s Eve inside Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater.