It’s been a pot-filled week of sports that Cheech and Chong would be proud of, as the marijuana-toking habits of Michael Phelps and a Japanese wrestler who goes by the name of Wakakirin were made public to the world.
While Michael Phelps has been suspended from swimming for three months, 25-year-old Wakakirin has been arrested and will likely be dismissed from the sport of sumo wrestling in Japan.
Within the past six months, three Russian sumo wrestlers were also dismissed from sumo wrestling after it was alleged that they smoked marijuana. Wakakirin is the fourth such sumo wrestler to be wrapped up in this scandal. Although Michael Phelps received a suspension, at least he’ll still be allowed to compete.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Marijuana Use in Sports
- Opportunity to explore the use and regulatory implications of marijuana in sports.
- Athletes' Rights and Responsibilities
- Disruptive innovation opportunity to examine what rights and responsibilities athletes have in regards to off-the-field conduct.
- Global Cultural Norms and Values in Sports
- Disruptive innovation opportunity to investigate the impact of different cultural norms and values on sports and the behavior of athletes.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Sports Industry
- Opportunity to revisit drug policies and explore potential changes to drug screening and consequences for athletes within the sports industry.
- Health and Wellness Industry
- Opportunity to explore the possible medical benefits of marijuana for athletes and its impact on their overall health and wellness.
- Law Enforcement Industry
- Opportunity to examine the role and possible changes to law enforcement policies relating to marijuana use in sports and off the field.
