Mike Tyson, a former heavyweight champion, has been known for his love of marijuana, often incorporating it into his daily routine and even having his own strain of cannabis. However, he has had to put his weed use on hold ahead of his upcoming fight against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on Friday at AT&T Stadium in Texas.
The reason for this is that marijuana is banned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which regulates combat sports in the state. According to the department’s communications manager, Tela Mange, the use of any pharmacological substance not approved for human therapeutic use is prohibited. A failed drug test would result in a 90-day suspension and a fine, and if the winner tests positive, the outcome of the fight would be changed to “No Decision.”
Tyson would not have been tested for marijuana use if the fight had taken place in a state that has legalized recreational marijuana. However, since it’s happening in Texas, he has had to abstain from using the substance.
The fight is scheduled to take place on Friday, November 15, and will be streamed on Netflix for free to subscribers. The exact ringwalk and fight time has not been announced, but the full event is set to begin at 8 p.m. ET.
It’s worth noting that while marijuana may not be fully legal in Texas, recent laws have decriminalized its use in some areas. In Dallas county, for example, 65% of voters have called for the decriminalization of marijuana, and a proposed amendment to the city charter would prevent police from arresting or citing individuals for possessing up to four ounces of cannabis in most cases.
