The UFC and the United States Anti-Doping Agency [USADA] came out and have dropped a major change to their rule-set. The news recently surfaced that fighters who test positive for marijuana- the psychoactive ingredient THC, will now no longer be punished.

Earlier on, there were in-competition tests for marijuana that would come to sink the fighters just days before the fight. The new ruling suggests that punishment can be handed out in the event that “Further evidence demonstrates the substance was taken for performance-enhancing purposes.” via MMA Fighting.com

Additionally, it’s essential to note that State Athletic Commissions are still liable to punishing fighters for testing positive. It’s important that this particular detail comes to the notice of the fighters to avoid misunderstandings.

UFC fighters set to benefit from this ruling

There are several notable names across the UFC roster who are sure to breathe a sigh of relief surrounding the newest UFC/USADA amendment. One such fighter is most certainly Nate Diaz, and to an extent his brother Nick Diaz. However, Nick doesn’t seem to have the same inclination to compete again.

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However, the Diaz brothers have faced their fair share of trouble due to the marijuana testing rule in the past. In fact, Nick Diaz faced a five-year ban and another incredibly rare Gogoplata win overturned due to marijuana usage. However, at the time it was stated that his levels were so high he might not have been feeling any pain.

Another notable name who could benefit from this is ‘Sugar’ Sean O’Malley. The bantamweight fighter is set to return to the octagon in February.

There have been several other fighters through the years who have suffered fines and suspensions for their usage. Kelvin Gastelum, Kevin Croom, and multiple-time ‘offender’ Niko Price can all breathe a collective sigh of relief. Price’s suspension issues crept up as recently as November, following his latest fight against Donald Cerrone.