MONTREAL -- Mixed martial arts star Georges St-Pierre says the Ultimate Fighting Championships hesitant position when it came to stiffer drug testing greatly influenced his decision to take a break from the octagon. Authentic Cheap Jerseys . St-Pierre said Tuesday a lack of strenuous drug testing was one of the factors that led to his decision to step away from the sport. "It bothered me greatly, it was one of the reasons I decided to step aside," St-Pierre said Tuesday. He vacated his welterweight title and took a hiatus from the sport in December, citing a need to lead a normal life and deal with mental fatigue. The 32-year-old confirmed when asked by a reporter that his employer, the UFC, did not support him when he proposed drug testing in the weeks preceding his Nov. 16 fight against Johnny Hendricks. St-Pierre stepped away following UFC 167 where he won a controversial split decision over Hendricks. After that fight, he said he needed time away to sort out some personal issues. The star fighter was prudent in his comments Tuesday, being careful not to point fingers at any one person or fighter. He stressed he wasnt accusing anyone of steroid abuse. St-Pierre said he wanted to bring the sport he loves to "another level" of testing and help those who are honest in the sport. "I tried to change things, and unfortunately, maybe for money reasons, maybe for image, they were not ready to do that," St-Pierre said. "I tried to (bring about) change in a very diplomatic way and it didnt work so its unfortunate, but I believe it will happen sooner or later." The former welterweight champion said he hasnt made a decision to retire and added hes in top physical condition and still trains regularly. While he has remained vague about a comeback, St-Pierre says the break has made him a better fighter because hes not feeling any external pressure. He repeated he hasnt set any timetable to make a decision regarding his UFC future. St-Pierre said implementing drug testing is not a condition for any potential return to the sport. He added he could understand the reticence from the organization -- a failed drug test could dramatically change a card and result in people losing money. St-Pierre was in Montreal handing out bursaries for athletic excellence. "I feel very good, I feel very happy," St-Pierre said, appreciating a holiday season with his family and being able to have a few drinks. Kevin Wyatt Jersey Retro . Though the 26-year-old said he was able to participate, coach Dwane Casey kept Johnson out as a precaution. Jeff Walker Jersey Retro . The Leafs were back on the ice Wednesday following an 10-day break. It apparently wasnt long enough, as Team Canadas 2-1 win over Latvia didnt conclude before the Leafs began practice. "I was thinking we might get a little delay, but it was nice to get out there," said Tyler Bozak of watching Wednesdays game.PHILADELPHIA -- Right-hander Kyle Kendrick has agreed to a $7,675,000, one-year deal with the Philadelphia Phillies, avoiding arbitration. Kendricks deal was announced Thursday night and includes award bonuses. He was 10-13 with a 4.70 ERA last season, and is 64-55 with a 4.38 ERA in seven seasons. The Phillies have thrree remaining arbitration-eligible players: outfielders Ben Revere and John Mayberry Jr. Blake Countess Jersey Retro. , and left-hander Antonio Bastardo. Kendrick has won double-digit games four times and made 30 starts three times. Hes slated as the No. 3 or 4 starter behind Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels. ' ' '

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