With recent news of Matt Riddle failing a UFC 149 post-fight drug test, in turn having his win against Chris Clements overturned by the Calgary Combative Sports Commission, “Deep Waters” has received major criticism from fans and media alike. The TUF veteran has ostensibly had enough as he took to twitter to voice his frustration, saying, “This is my medical marijuana license. I don’t take other medications, so don’t hate” as well as tweeting a picture of his medical marijuana license.
While Riddle essentially did nothing wrong, this is the Nick Diaz situation all over again, filling everyone with consternation about the situation. Despite the fact that it is legal use of marijuana in this case, Riddle now has a no contest on his record instead of a win. While the 90 suspension was irrelevant, considering he would not have fought in that time in either case, it’s still an unfortunate situation for the young welterweight.
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Not to smart of him to have his address out there like that. Second off ether way smart of him to take the fight, though it will be a no contest, he got a bonus check and the UFC will still look at is as a win.
I know you just love the word ostensibly, but.I’m calling wrong usage here lol..sorry I just had to ;)
Leave it to a pot head to put his address out there..yikes!
Sure some states mindlessly allow people to get baked, in some illogical attempt to address real issues, but its openly not legal in his profession. So add much as it sucks, its not really unfortunate, as its his bad.
Wow I’m sure those metabolites were the reason he got that submission. Probably more of a ped than overeem’s horsemeat samiches. It’s crazy that guys can get a TUE for steroids but can’t get one to fight with metabolites in their system(not high).
Just an FYI, most commissions (including NSAC, NJSAC, and CSAC) allow for TUEs for marijuana. All you have to do is abide by the rules, and they’re not that complicated.
In his interview on mma fighting he said he let them know? Maybe didn’t file paper work?
How often are they given or is this not made public.
just wondering… what does it require? and why then do you think these guys have the issues that they do?
what are TUEs? : )
@windmiller You have to notify the commission, within a reasonable time, that you have to take something for medical purposes. The Commission then has a hearing regarding the matter, you state your case and they approve or disapprove your request. Usually if they approve it, they set forth conditions for the usage of whatever it is and they monitor your usage.
One thing that should be noted here, is that both Rivera and Riddle were late additions to the card. That was probably considered by the commission when they doled out the penalties, but it needs to be said. So what that means is that Riddle probably did not have enough time to follow the procedure for a TUE. As for Rivera, since it was an OTC stimulant it was likely something he took to make a hard weight cut since he’s a big bantamweight and did not have as much time to cut weight.
Actually Chris,
Many fighters (and their management) have vocalized their dismay in terms of how the various athletic commissions run their pre and post fight test procedures / vagueness of the paperwork.
I’m thinking most professional fighters would take issue with your “they’re not that complicated” comment. Just sayin’.
I mean, how many times have we witness how much of a ‘circus’ the commissions can become at times.
I just don’t think the processes pre/post fight are as cut & dry as some people assume.
Yeah, not really that many are saying that, just some high profile ones have used it as an excuse when they get caught.
Getting a TUE is so easy it’s really just a matter of finding a doctor to say “yes” (they don’t have to be qualified in that field either) and getting on the docket for a hearing.
There’s some vagueness with anything but if a fighter doesn’t think they have to get approval for drugs that are illegal without a prescription or permit, they aren’t the most competent person to begin with.
hell yeah, i knew there was no way in hell riddle didnt smoke.
Yeah Chris, it is complicated….to pot heads.