Nick Diaz, the former Strikeforce champion, had a promising start to his UFC career when he defeated BJ Penn in his debut. However, things took a turn for the worse as he faced multiple suspensions that put a halt to his career. The main reason behind these suspensions was his constant tussle with the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC). In a recent interview, his brother and fellow UFC fighter Nate Diaz shed some light on the situation and explained why he couldn’t save Nick from his five-year UFC suspension.
It all started in 2012 when Nick Diaz tested positive for marijuana after his fight against Carlos Condit at UFC 143. This was not the first time he had tested positive for the drug, as he had previously failed a drug test in 2007. As a result, the NSAC handed him a one-year suspension and a hefty fine of $60,000. This was a major setback for Nick, who was at the peak of his career and had just come off a title fight.
But this was just the beginning of his troubles with the NSAC. In 2015, he was once again suspended for five years after testing positive for marijuana metabolites. This time, the punishment was much harsher, and it seemed like Nick’s career was over. However, his suspension was reduced to 18 months after an appeal, and he was allowed to return to the Octagon in 2016.
But just when things were looking up for Nick, he once again found himself in trouble with the NSAC. In 2018, he was suspended for one year and fined $100,000 for failing to report his whereabouts for drug testing. This was a major blow to his career, and it seemed like he would never be able to make a comeback.
Nate Diaz, who has always been a vocal supporter of his brother, opened up about the situation in a recent interview. He revealed that he had tried to help Nick and had even offered to pay his fines, but the NSAC refused to budge. He also expressed his frustration with the commission, stating that they were more interested in making money than helping fighters.
Nate also pointed out the hypocrisy of the NSAC, as they had no problem with fighters using performance-enhancing drugs but were quick to punish those who tested positive for marijuana. He believes that marijuana should not be considered a banned substance in MMA and that the NSAC needs to change its policies.
Despite all the setbacks, Nick Diaz remains a fan favorite and a legend in the MMA world. His aggressive fighting style and never-say-die attitude have earned him a loyal fan base. And while his UFC career may have been derailed by suspensions, he continues to train and stay in shape, hinting at a possible comeback in the future.
In conclusion, Nick Diaz’s UFC career may have had its ups and downs, but his legacy as a fighter will always be remembered. His constant tussle with the NSAC may have hindered his career, but it has also shed light on the flaws in the commission’s policies. As for Nate Diaz, he will continue to support his brother and fight for what he believes is right. And who knows, we may see the Diaz brothers back in the Octagon together one day, entertaining fans and proving their critics wrong.
