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The connection between cannabis and pro wrestling has often been a tricky topic. But things are changing. As more places legalize marijuana and people’s attitudes shift, WWE has become more accepting of it. Many wrestlers, both past and present, openly talk about using cannabis, whether for fun or for health reasons. As more wrestlers support cannabis, WWE is starting to see its importance for health and business.
For many years, using cannabis in WWE had serious consequences. Some wrestlers like Rob Van Dam and Jack Swagger faced career setbacks due to marijuana-related arrests. In 2006, RVD was a top star, holding both the WWE and ECW Championships. But after getting caught with marijuana, he was suspended and had to give up his titles. Jack Swagger (now Jake Hager) was also arrested for possession in 2013, but he managed to keep his career on track.
Other wrestlers, like The Iron Sheik and Hacksaw Jim Duggan, were involved in major incidents where marijuana was involved. Their 1987 arrest led to temporary firings and revealed just how strict WWE's cannabis policies used to be. These examples show how WWE once took marijuana use very seriously—a stance that has changed a lot over time.
Today, WWE superstars are more open about cannabis, mainly for its medical benefits. Rob Van Dam is a major advocate, saying marijuana is key to his health routine. He has been vocal about the need to reform cannabis laws and has participated in discussions highlighting its benefits for athletes.
Riddle, who moved from UFC to WWE, has been clear about using cannabis, and notes that WWE’s rules are now more relaxed. While the company still tests for it, punishments have lessened, showing a change in culture.
Ric Flair, a WWE legend, is now in the cannabis business. He teamed up with Mike Tyson’s Tyson 2.0 to start his product line, Ric Flair Drip. Flair says cannabis has helped him cut down on meds like Xanax. His support shows growing acceptance of cannabis in wrestling, especially as an alternative to painkillers and sleep aids.
Bret Hart, another wrestling icon, has talked about using cannabis instead of alcohol or other drugs. In his book Hitman: My Real Life in the Cartoon World of Wrestling, Hart noted how WWE’s strict drug policies pushed wrestlers toward alcohol use, which he found harmful.
Sasha Banks, another prominent WWE star, has openly discussed how CBD helped her overcome dependence on pain medication and alcohol. She credits CBD with alleviating anxiety and aiding in recovery, leading her to co-found a CBD brand aimed at promoting health among athletes.
Snoop Dogg, who has appeared with WWE many times and even won a match at WrestleMania 39, has his own cannabis strain. His connection to wrestling and marijuana makes the two worlds even closer.
Also, cannabis brands are sponsoring wrestling events and personalities more often. As more people accept marijuana for fun and health reasons, it's likely more wrestlers will follow Flair and RVD, using their fame in the growing cannabis market. Wrestlers are increasingly turning to weed for medical purposes, especially as an alternative to traditional painkillers and prescription medications.
WWE used to be strict with cannabis, often fining or suspending wrestlers for using it. However, things have changed a lot recently. According to wrestler Matt Riddle, the organization doesn't punish wrestlers harshly for cannabis like before, and instead, they focus on keeping wrestlers in good shape.
Other sports are making similar changes. Leagues like the UFC and NBA have updated their cannabis rules, acknowledging it can be beneficial for athletes. Since WWE and UFC are now both under TKO Group Holdings, UFC’s relaxed approach may influence WWE to further soften its stance.
As public views on cannabis change, WWE is likely to continue changing its rules. Many well-known wrestlers are involved in the cannabis industry, and with more places legalizing it, cannabis investments might become even more integrated into wrestling culture.
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