Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) somethingweight Nate Diaz found himself under the regulatory microscope over the past few weeks after self medicating at the UFC 202 post-fight press conference (video). Diaz, fresh off a five-round war with Conor McGregor, was using a vape pen to combat his injuries.
Vape pens are packed with cannibidiol oil, also known as CBD, which belongs to the cannabis family and is banned in-competition by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Not surprisingly, United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) is investigating that matter.
Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC), however, has closed the book.
NAC tells me they will not impose a penalty on Nate Diaz for "vape-gate", since it happened post-drug test. USADA still looking into it.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) September 8, 2016
One down, one to go.
Diaz (19-11) has not failed a pre- or post-fight drug test during his 12-year career in combat sports. When he returns to the Octagon remains to be seen, as the longtime veteran is currently lobbying for a McGregor rubber match, which now has a better chance of happening after this.
Assuming this doesn't happen.