The UFC’s Dana White issued a statement after it was discovered by the Nevada State Athletic Commission that Nick Diaz tested positive for marijuana. Diaz was the only drug test of the fighters that competed at UFC 143 that was positive for an illegal substance.
The brief press release sent out by the UFC quoted White: “I am beyond disappointed that he tested positive for marijuana,” said White. “It is now in the hands of the Nevada State Athletic Commission.”
Payout Perspective:
It will be interesting what will happen with Diaz’s future in the UFC. 143 showed that he has the potential to carry a PPV. For one reason or another, the fans are drawn to him. The UFC knows he is a commodity and won’t release him. He’s already caused White headaches by no-showing press conferences and missing plane flights. We’ll see what tolerance White has for Diaz.
The short press release seems out of the ordinary since White does not ordinarily send out releases to address situations like this. If nothing else, it clarifies that he’s putting discipline action in the hand of the NSAC.
Funny thing is i believe the UFC can still use him even if suspended if they wanted to. The UFC is running big shows all over these days and could easily use him outside the NSAC jurisdiction in Brazil, Japan, Abu Dahbi, or Canada. I dont see it happening but they could.
I agree they could, but the commission takes a dim view of fighters plying their trade overseas while on suspension. I don’t think the UFC will want to play that game with Keizer.
Like Dana, I’m also beyond dissapointed. While I personally support the legalization of marijuana, the commission’s rules are clear. I was on tenterhooks for the Condit/Diaz rematch, and now one of my favorite fighters will be sitting out for a year. Dammit.