As the cannabis industry continues to expand, professional athletes and sports figures are increasingly aligning with cannabis companies. Whether for the purpose of pain relief, mental health management, or recovery, cannabis is gaining recognition in the world of sports. Partnerships between athletes, sports teams, and cannabis brands are becoming more common, especially as the stigma around cannabis use decreases. Here’s a look at a few key sports figures who are leading the charge in integrating cannabis into the world of professional sports.
Ricky Williams – NFL Star and Cannabis Advocate
One of the most well-known advocates for cannabis in professional sports is former NFL running back Ricky Williams. Throughout his football career, Williams faced numerous suspensions due to his cannabis use, but he has since embraced the plant for its medicinal benefits, particularly for athletes managing chronic pain and injuries. In 2018, Williams launched his own cannabis brand, Real Wellness, which focuses on a range of products aimed at pain relief, sleep aids, and overall wellness.
Williams’ venture into the cannabis industry has helped spark conversations within the NFL about cannabis as an alternative to the highly addictive opioids many athletes have been prescribed for pain management.
Source: Real Wellness
Mike Tyson – Boxing Legend and Cannabis Entrepreneur
Another famous name in professional sports who has stepped into the cannabis world is Mike Tyson. The former boxing champion has been a vocal supporter of cannabis for years, crediting it for helping him manage his mental health and post-career pain. In 2021, Tyson launched Tyson 2.0, a brand focused on THC and CBD products, which includes flower, edibles, and tinctures.
Tyson’s involvement in the cannabis industry has made waves, particularly in combat sports, where injuries and long-term damage to the body are common. His public endorsement of cannabis has helped reduce the stigma around its use, especially as an alternative to traditional painkillers.
Source: Tyson 2.0
Matt Crafton – NASCAR and CBD Sponsorship
In the world of auto racing, NASCAR driver Matt Crafton made headlines by becoming one of the first racers to partner with a CBD company. In 2020, Crafton announced his sponsorship deal with Craft 1861, a brand that produces CBD wellness products. While NASCAR maintains strict regulations against THC, Crafton’s partnership focuses on CBD for pain relief and recovery, shining a light on the potential benefits of non-psychoactive cannabis compounds in professional racing.
This partnership was a significant step forward for CBD’s acceptance in professional sports, where the physical demands on athletes, particularly in high-impact sports like racing, are immense.
Source: Craft 1861
Expanding Horizons in Sports and Cannabis
As cannabis continues to gain traction both medicinally and recreationally, athletes and teams across various sports are beginning to recognize its potential benefits. From NFL stars like Ricky Williams to racing icons like Matt Crafton, the growing intersection between cannabis and professional sports reflects the evolving landscape of athlete wellness. With more research and increased acceptance, the future is bright for cannabis in the world of sports.
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