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UFC Fighter Suspended for 6 Months After Failed Marijuana Test

Published 12/02/2020, 11:41 PM EST

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The Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) has brought down the hammer on UFC welterweight fighter Niko Price during a monthly meeting. Price will be benched for 6 months after he tested positive for marijuana following his bout in September. Niko Price faced off against perennial veteran Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone’ and the bout ended in a majority draw.

The fight has been overturned to a ‘No Contest’ on the record of both fighters following NSAC’s recent ruling. Not to mention, Price was also slapped with an $8,500 fine for his test that came back over the viable limit. ‘The Hybrid’ took to Twitter and spoke out to fans following the news of the suspension.

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Furthermore, this isn’t the first time Niko Price has put a toe across the line after he popped for marijuana back in 2017. Marijuana isn’t illegal in the state of Nevada; however, it has been placed on the banned substance list.

Niko Price vs Donald Cerrone: A missed opportunity

The 14-4 fighter has fought top names in the 170-pound division ever since he made his move to the UFC. Facing off against ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone was a massive opportunity and in all accounts, he put forth a good performance. Cerrone’s known amongst the casual fanbase and it served as a good opportunity to raise his profile in the division.

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via Imago

The bout itself was an exciting contest that saw both fighters vying for the ‘Performance of the Night’ bonus. Additionally, the only drawback from the three-round affair was eye pokes that caught ‘Cowboy’ all night long. Following the draw, both fighters were keen to run things back. However, it seems as though there will be a delay in the schedule.

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NSAC has a storied reputation for overturning fights over positive marijuana suspension with Kevin Croom and Trevin Jones being stand-outs. Moreover, the suspensions gained a more rounded outlook following Nick Diaz’s infamous five-year suspension for marijuana. With a ‘No Contest’ to his name, Niko Price will have to head back to the drawing board.

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He may have to fight a lower-ranked opponent. However, considering the depth of the welterweight division, there’s no doubt he’ll draw a game opponent.

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Written by:

Darryl Pinto

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Darryl Pinto is a senior MMA writer at EssentiallySports. He is currently pursuing his graduate degree in Mass Media (with a specialization in Journalism) out of Xavier’s College and has a year's experience in his current role. Darryl specializes in predictions, reporting, and covering UFC events live.
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