After much speculation as to why a rematch between Carlos Condit and Nick Diaz had been halted, the public has finally been informed.  The Nevada State Athletic Commission  released a statement that Nick Diaz has tested positive for a banned substance.  The substance has been labeled as a “marijuana metabolite”.  This marks the second time in Diaz’s illustrious mixed martial arts career that he has been penalized for such a mistake.
Diaz fought once for Pride Fighting Championship in 2007, where Diaz defeated Takanori Gomi by way of a second round submission.  Unfortunately, Diaz failed a similar drug test and the athletic commission was forced to overturn the result.  A “no contest” was added to Diaz’s impeccable record, and it became his first run-in with the athletic commission.
At UFC 143, Diaz’s opponent, Carlos Condit, bested him on the judge’s scorecards unanimously.  The result was controversial among fans and fighters alike.  The fans voiced their feelings loudly on Twitter, and demanded a rematch after questionable decision.  Carlos Condit accepted and it seemed as if the fans would receive what they had called for.  It also appeared as if this would pull Nick Diaz out of his momentary retirement from mixed martial arts.  The athletic commission halted the signing of a rematch due to a failed drug test during the required pre-fight medicals. 
It is tough to say where Nick Diaz currently stands in the sport of MMA and the UFC alike.  Diaz has now broken the same rule twice in the span of five years, and fans now await the punishment of Diaz.  Whether the rule is ridiculous or not isn’t the issue here.  The athletic commission has developed a set of rules and regulations that are to be followed.  Diaz’s overall demeanor has lead him down the wrong path in the past.  Hopefully the athletic commission spares Nick Diaz a lengthy suspension.  Diaz has grown quite a fan base since entering the UFC last year.  It’s obvious that he is marketable and has the skills to be the best Welterweight in the UFC, however there are questions about what the future holds for Nick Diaz.  Sources:
MMAFighting.com
Wikipedia.com
 
 
Photos Courtesy of Zuffa LLC.



 
 

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