The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has notably evolved its stance on marijuana use among fighters, reflecting the changing societal and legal perspectives on cannabis. The UFC, in collaboration with the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA), no longer considers marijuana a violation if detected in out-of-competition tests. This policy shift acknowledges the medicinal and recreational use of marijuana in many states. However, fighters are still subject to penalties if they test positive during in-competition periods, especially if it impacts their performance and safety.
Five UFC Fighters Supporting Cannabis:
- Nate Diaz: Nate Diaz, a fan favorite known for his endurance and unorthodox fighting style, has been a vocal advocate for cannabis. Diaz often highlights the benefits of CBD for recovery and stress relief. He brought significant attention to cannabis use when he used a CBD vape pen during a post-fight press conference, promoting its therapeutic advantages for athletes.
- Nick Diaz: Nick Diaz, Nate’s older brother, has also been a prominent supporter of cannabis. Having faced suspensions for marijuana use in the past, Nick advocates for its medicinal properties, particularly for recovery and pain management. He believes that cannabis provides a safer alternative to traditional painkillers and is essential for his well-being.
- Sean O’Malley: Sean O’Malley, known for his flamboyant style and knockout power, openly supports cannabis. O’Malley often discusses how cannabis helps him relax and recover after intense training sessions. He credits cannabis with aiding his creativity and focus, both inside and outside the octagon, and is a strong advocate for its acceptance in sports.
- Liz Carmouche: Liz Carmouche, a pioneer in women’s MMA, is another advocate for cannabis. Carmouche emphasizes its therapeutic benefits, particularly for managing injuries and the physical toll of rigorous training. She supports the use of natural remedies like cannabis over prescription painkillers, highlighting its effectiveness and safety.
- Elias Theodorou: The late Elias Theodorou was a passionate advocate for medical cannabis. He was the first professional athlete to receive a therapeutic use exemption for medical cannabis in North America. Theodorou used cannabis to manage pain from arthritis and was a vocal proponent of its medicinal benefits, striving to normalize its use in professional sports.
These fighters have played a crucial role in changing perceptions and influencing policy changes within the UFC and beyond. Their advocacy spotlights the potential benefits of cannabis for recovery, pain management, and overall athlete well-being.