Surprisingly, marijuana has quite an influential presence in sports, although not in the way you would initially imagine. Recent studies have shown that the drug could be a much healthier alternative to dangerous prescription opioids and can help athletes manage pain during recovery and therapy. While marijuana is still a mind-altering drug that is potentially addictive, many people continue to show staunch support in other areas of sports entertainment. In fact, some celebrity athletes from a variety of fields have expressed great interest or (in some cases) admiration for this plant. Let’s take a closer look at three athletes who have promoted marijuana.
Bill Walton (Basketball)
Ironically, at the height of his career in the 1970s and ‘80s, NBA star Bill Walton resembled a cartoon character who was also suspected to be using weed during his most famous broadcast years (Shaggy from Scooby Doo). Plus, the giant athlete’s love of Grateful Dead did not help the situation, either. After becoming a commentator for an NCAA game, Walton openly professed his distaste over the marijuana debate and argued that politicians should legalize the drug (nothing more).
Nick Diaz (Mixed Martial Arts)
A Strikeforce Welterweight Champion, Nick Diaz is a passionate supporter of the drug and has expressed his love for weed on multiple occasions. However, after an incident in which he tested positive for the drug at UFC 183, he was suspended from the sport for a staggering five years (courtesy of the Nevada Athletic Division). This decision angered fans, who argued that Diaz’s opponent Anderson Silva should have received more than a single-year suspension for steroid use. While his time outside the ring was ultimately reduced to 18 months, Diaz has still actively promoted marijuana.
Rob Van Dam (Wrestling)
Outside the Olympic Games, the business of professional wrestling is built on staged fighting and epic (sometimes goofy) stories. Nevertheless, the men who train to beat each other to a pulp for the show have to train extensively for these performances. ECW and WWE Superstar Rob Van Dam believes that marijuana is the key to his successful training, as the drug has helped him stay calm and focused inside and outside the ring. Following a short suspension in 2006 (for a marijuana-related arrest), Van Dam has still continued to promote the drug as a good relaxant.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance abuse disorder or 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 addiction and substance abuse troubles today.
