Nick Diaz files claim against NSAC; denies lying on pre-fight drug questionnaire

News recently broke that a claim has been put in place against the NSAC by the legal team representing suspended fighter Nick Diaz. Diaz, suspended for failing a drug test since his bout versus Carlos Condit at UFC 143, is still awaiting the final details of his possible suspension from the NSAC. However news of the claim is centered around a different dispute, one that attempts to refute an earlier suggestion from the commission that had Diaz lying on a pre-fight questionnaire concerning the use of any prescription medications.

According to the NSAC, Diaz lied on this set of questions by denying that he took any prescribed medications, but it is commonly known that he is prescribed medical marijuana in the state of California where he lives. Used for his ADHD, it was marijuana metabolites that now have Diaz’ ability to fight up in the air. His legal team has since come up with an aggressive defense, focusing on the idea that the state of Nevada does not actually prohibit inactive marijuana metabolites, thereby making Diaz’ pending suspension unfounded. This claim may have bearing on the punishment handed down, if it truly carries any weight in the courtroom.

Earlier the public information officer for the Nevada attorney general had alleged that Diaz had tested positive, but also lied on the questionnaire. Soon his lawyers issued a response, stating that Diaz had broken no rules in his statements prior to the fight. They insisted that Diaz did not understand the terminology; and did not think his ADHD was considered a “serious illness” as listed. Lastly, he believed his marijuana not to be a prescribed medication, only approved of and recommended by a physician. Obviously the fight between Nick Diaz and the Nevada State Athletic Comission has begun to heat up, and only time will tell if this recent claim is an effective effort by Diaz’ camp. Although he retired, he must want to fight, otherwise why vehemently oppose a possible year-long suspension? He only recently volunteered for a BJJ superfight.  What will be the fate of Nick Diaz?

Further Reading: NSAC: Nick Diaz tested positive for Marijuana metabolites at UFC 143

Photo: Francis Specker