In the world of athletics, one of the most grueling and (inarguably) the most exciting events fall into the category of combat sports. From high-flying kicks to intense grappling, a variety of martial arts and striking sports continue to take the United States and the world by storm. However, on one October night in an old warehouse, former UFC champions Frank Mir and Forrest Griffin face each other for one of the most intense and most interesting matchups ever. Overall, this friendly but intense encounter was one of several events at the inaugural Black Belt CBD Invitational, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament that includes male and female fighters. So why is this competition so unique? Black Belt CBD is a company that distributes CBD-based products to professional and amateur fighters. So why does the marijuana plant play a role in these aggressive athletics? Let’s take a closer look at how cannabis is applied to combat sports recovery and find out.
CBD and Pain Management
We’ve all heard the phrase “No pain no game.” However, professional fighters take this phrase to a whole new level. Pain is not only a part of the game but also (in a manner of speaking) a requirement. Since 2001, Frank Mir has fought as a mixed martial artist and, as a result of intense years of combat, has undergone pain management. Mir, however, was not pleased with his original lineup of painkillers and regular liver enzyme tests to ensure he wasn’t being poisoned. However, after he switched to using CBD, the 39-year old former UFC-heavyweight champion claims that the substance has minimalized inflammation. In fact, Mir is so dedicated to the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD that he has stopped using over-the-counter meds like NSAIDS.
THC is a No-Go
While the plant does have perpetual benefits for pain therapy, keep in mind that marijuana is still not widely accepted in the field of combat sports. For years, cannabis and mixed martial arts have developed a rough, rocky relationship. In fact, back in 2015, the UFC teamed up with the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) to intensify competitor testing, following the guidelines of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
In response, Mir says that he completely understands why officials don’t want their competitors doped on weed, but that hasn’t stopped other athletes from dancing across the ropes. Recently, in 2015, UFC star Nick Diaz was suspended after his third positive test for marijuana and was ultimately kept out of the ring for 18 months. Needless to say, THC is officially a no-go for in-ring competitions.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
