Former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson smokes a lot of weed—so much so that it’s become a major part of Tyson’s brand in the last 15 years. The Tyson we see now is more Zen-like compared to the “baddest man on the planet” persona he had when he was still fighting professionally. He has his own strain of cannabis and regularly interacts with guests on his podcast, “Hotboxin’ With Mike Tyson,” while smoking weed.
However, Tyson has had to give up smoking for his first professional fight in almost 20 years. He fights YouTuber-turned-boxer and promoter Jake Paul on Friday at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Why Can’t Mike Tyson Smoke Weed Before His Fight?
Marijuana is on the list of banned substances used by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, which regulates combat sports in Texas. A failed drug test automatically triggers a 90-day suspension and a fine, while a positive test results in a “No Decision” outcome for the fight’s winner.
“Use of any pharmacological substance that is not approved for human therapeutic use is prohibited,” said Tela Mange, communications manager for the TDLR.
Do All States Test For Marijuana Use Before Fights?
The TDLR mandates drug testing to ensure fairness and safety, including pre-fight and post-fight testing for banned substances. These tests screen for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) as well as recreational drugs. The specific protocols and frequency of testing can vary based on regulations and the nature of the event.
Should the fight occur in a state that has legalized recreational marijuana, it is likely that Tyson wouldn’t undergo a marijuana test. For example, ahead of his 2020 exhibition fight in Los Angeles, there was no mention of Tyson stopping marijuana use during training.
What Time Is The Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight?
Netflix will start coverage of the full fight card at 8 p.m. ET on Friday, Nov. 15. We have not yet determined the exact ring walk and fight time for Tyson vs. Paul, as the other fights on the card could act as variables.
How To Watch The Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul fight
- Date: Friday, Nov. 15
- Time: The timing of the ring walk has not yet been announced, but the entire event starts at 8 p.m. ET.
- TV: Unfortunately this content is not available on TV or Pay-Per-View.
- Stream: You can stream Netflix for free if you have a subscription.
Will Marijuana Ever Be Fully Legal In Texas?
For now, it’s unlikely. However, recent laws have been implemented to decriminalize marijuana in the state. In Dallas County, 65% of voters want to decriminalize the drug, and in 2019, Gov. Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1325 into law, which allows the production, manufacture, retail sale, and inspection of industrial hemp crops and products in Texas.
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