World Anti-Doping Agency Raises Cannabis Threshold for Athletes
The World Anti-Doping Agency has increased the threshold required for an athlete to test positive for cannabis use.
During a May 11 meeting, WADA’s executive committee decided to increase the threshold level for cannabis from 15 ng/L to 150 ng/L, significantly reducing the chances of an athlete testing positive for out-of-competition use.
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Marijuana testing has become a much-discussed topic in mixed martial arts in the last several years. Former Strikeforce welterweight champion and UFC title contender Nick Diaz, a medical marijuana patient in his home state of California, has twice tested positive for the drug in Nevada. Additionally, competitors like Dave Herman, Matt Riddle and Robbie Peralta have all seen tests flagged for marijuana use in the last year.
Most recently, veteran lightweight Pat Healy tested positive for the drug following his UFC 159 victory over Jim Miller, resulting in a 90-day suspension and the victory being changed to a no-contest. “Bam Bam” also saw his post-fight bonus money rescinded, which totaled $130,000.
It is currently unknown how WADA’s decision will affect the Association of Boxing Commissions and state-by-state drug testing. ABC President Tim Lueckenhoff could not immediately be reached for comment.