UFC star Nick Diaz was slapped with a five-year ban and $165,000 fine in September by the Nevada State Athletic Commission for a third failed drug test for marijuana in the Silver State, but the controversial mixed martial artist could reportedly return to the octagon sooner than expected.
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Diaz in Settlement Talks with NSAC
Wednesday, Oct. 28
Citing a source, MMAFighting.com’s Marc Raimondi reported the fighter could have his suspension reduced in time to return next year.
Diaz corroborated that report by providing an update on the settlement talks with an Instagram post Tuesday night:
Diaz was initially popped following his main-event loss to Anderson Silva at UFC 183. According to Yahoo Sports’ Kevin Iole, Diaz tested positive for marijuana following the fight. Conversely, Silva tested positive for drostanolone prior to his UFC 183 victory, per Iole.
Diaz previously lashed out regarding his lengthy suspension by comparing his infractions to those of other UFC fighters.
“I’m the only person in this sport, for the most part, that ain’t on steroids,” Diaz said in September, according to USA Today‘s MMA Junkie. “Now there’s new rules in effect and there’s guys who aren’t on steroids now, but they used to be. They’ve always been on steroids. I’ve never been on steroids and I didn’t break the rules now. I tested under.”
According to MMAFighting.com, Diaz’s first two positive tests for marijuana came in 2007 and 2012.
Diaz is still fighting a public relations battle to try and protect his image, but settlement talks appear to have taken a positive turn as he attempts to make a return to the sport next year.
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