UFC lightweight champion Sean Sherk, whose A and B urine samples tested positive for banned substances following his decision victory over Hermes Franca at UFC 73, has filed for an extension with the California State Athletic Commission to appeal his suspension.

Sherk, who turned 34 on Sunday, was set to go before the CSAC Monday morning to dispute the tests, which showed elevated testostarone levels and the anabolic steroid nandrolone.

"I don't want this to take any longer than it has to, but I hired my lawyer just a couple of weeks ago," said Sherk. "I want to get this done as soon as possible so I can fight B.J. [Penn] in November, but the next hearing wouldn't be until October."