WWE has reportedly removed marijuana from its list of banned substances, according to recent statements by WWE superstar Michin aka Mia Yim. While WWE has yet to issue an official confirmation, Michin disclosed this policy change during an appearance earlier this month on “The Speakeezy” podcast, highlighting a shift in the company’s stance toward cannabis use among its talent.
Major Policy Shift, But No Official Confirmation
Speaking on the podcast, Michin explained that WWE quietly eliminated marijuana from its list of banned substances “a couple years ago.” She stated, “Because it's [marijuana] more legal, they've kind of accepted it. So before, that used to be -- marijuana used to be on the drug list and they took that off a couple years ago.”
Benzinga contacted WWE twice seeking confirmation of Michin’s comments but has not received a response at the time of publication.
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The wrestler’s comments suggest that WWE performers are no longer penalized for marijuana use, a notable departure from previous policies that imposed fines on talent who tested positive for the substance. WWE has not publicly confirmed or commented on Michin’s remarks.
WWE’s Past Stance On Marijuana Use
For decades, WWE maintained a strict wellness policy that categorized marijuana as a banned substance. Wrestlers caught using cannabis often faced fines, with notable names such as Randy Orton and Jack Swagger among those penalized for testing positive. This hardline approach was part of WWE's broader drug policy, enacted in response to public scrutiny and past controversies related to substance abuse within the industry.
As marijuana laws have evolved across the United States, WWE's stance has appeared to soften. While fines for cannabis use reportedly continued into the early 2020s, Michin's comments indicate the company may have fully allowed marijuana use by its talent.
Growing Trend In Sports, Entertainment
If Michin's comments hold true, WWE would be joining a broader trend in professional sports. Major organizations, including the UFC, have already revised drug policies to remove marijuana from banned substance lists. The shift reflects both changing societal attitudes and growing recognition of cannabis's potential therapeutic benefits, particularly in managing pain and stress -- two major factors affecting professional wrestlers.
In the United States, 24 states and the District of Columbia have legalized marijuana for recreational use, with an even greater number allowing medical use. WWE's policy adjustment, if confirmed, would align with these legal and cultural developments, as well as with the practices of its sister company, UFC, under the TKO Group (NYSE:TKO) umbrella.
The Need For Official Clarification
Despite multiple reports citing Michin's remarks, WWE has not publicly acknowledged the change. Until an official statement is made, the exact details remain unclear, including whether there are still restrictions regarding in-ring performance, travel or other professional obligations.
For now, wrestlers appear to have more freedom regarding cannabis use, at least based on Michin's account. As WWE continues evolving under new leadership and its growing corporate structure, further updates on its wellness policy could be forthcoming.
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