Nate Diaz passed drug testing in correlation with UFC 202, but he’s not out of the woods yet.
The 31 year old fighter was not flagged for USADA violations in conjunction with UFC 202, where he fought Conor McGregor in the main event. But his actions after the fight could get him into trouble. In his post-fight media availability, Diaz appeared to be vaping. When asked what was in the smoking device, he said it was cannabidiol (also known as CBD) oil and that he was taking it to help heal.
"It helps with the healing process and inflammation, stuff like that. So you want to get these for before and after the fights, training. It'll make your life a better place," Diaz said.
According to Bloody Elbow, CBD (and most other cannabis related products) is banned as a “specific substance" by the UFC-anti doping policy in partnership with USADA. While none of Diaz’s drug tests administered by USADA or the Nevada Athletic Commission tested positive for any illegal substances, his admission of use is still enough to keep him under investigation.
The admission that he was vaping CBD in a smoking device could fall under the "admitted use" clause in the UFC's anti-doping policy run by USADA, according to MMA Fighting. Cannabinoids are only banned by the WADA Code in-competition, but that definition includes the six hours prior to and post fight. The UFC 202 press conference was within that window. Cannabidiol is one of 113 active cannabinoids contained in cannabis.
USADA spokesperson Ryan Madden commented on the situation two days after the fight, saying it would be reviewed.
"I can confirm that USADA is aware of the situation and is currently gathering information in order to determine the next appropriate steps," Madden said then.
Madden said that the process / investigation is ongoing.
