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Mixed martial artist Toby Grear has been suspended twice by the California State Athletic Commission for his medical-marijuana use. Last month, he spoke at the Boston Freedom Rally and NORML Conference. MassCann's Mike C interviewed Grear for CelebStoner.

How did your marijuana activism begin?

It began nearly 10 years ago at the University of Dayton where I was majoring in psychology and violated UD's anti-marijuana policy for using cannabis responsibly. I was shown leniency and allowed to continue my education, but it left a very bad taste in my mouth. In 2001, I went to Amsterdam for the Cannabis Cup and became determined to change the way we look at cannabis in the States. Since graduating from UD, I've worked diligently to find a platform from which I can express my ideas and make a change. I found that platform and it just happens to be a steel cage. I moved to Los Angeles in 2003 and become a professional mixed martial artist.

Tell us about the circumstances of your suspensions.

In July 2007, I was found to be in violation the California State Athletic Commission’s "anti-doping" policy when I tested positive for THC following a professional fight. My argument is that as a medical-marijuana patient, with a letter notarized by the state of California, it is a direct contradiction for the CSAC to apply federal laws to organizations within the California Chamber of Commerce and deem marijuana a "drug of abuse." I appealed my case in front of the CSAC with little effect. In an effort to push the issue, in November 2007 I tested positive for THC and again appealed my test results on the basis that medical cannabis is not a “drug of abuse." The CSAC denied my appeal. As a sign of support, MediCann stepped up and paid my $1,000 fine and became my main fight sponsor.

With Michael Phelps, Rob Van Dam, professional football and basketball players, and MMA fighters such as yourself all using cannabis, do you see any change happening here?

Looking back, you can see Arnold Schwarzenegger smoking a joint in Pumping Iron, demonstrating a long relationship between top-level athletes and cannabis. I believe that athletes have always had a relationship with cannabis.

Are athletes starting to talk about cannabis as a viable replacement for prescription painkillers?

Due to the high demands and propensity for injury in MMA, there is a well-documented history of prescription painkiller abuse in the sport. Many athletes have discovered the benefits of cannabis to their rest and recovery, and continue to excel in their sports with responsible use.

Are you still suspended from fighting in California for cannabis? When do you plan to return?

I am no longer under suspension and have fought three times in California since my suspension ended, winning all three fights.

How do you feel about the future of marijuana reform in the U.S.?

As a professional athlete, it's my goal to help people understand the benefits of cannabis and destroy the stereotype of the “typical stoner." The better I do in the cage, the more opportunity I have to share my ideas on a larger platform and prove that cannabis does not inhibit overall success.

You're known as Toby "Tigerheart" Grear. What's the significance or story behind your nickname?

My nickname is a testament to my style, because I'm known for my tiger-like ferocity and ability to win fights on will alone when needed.

Mike C works with MassCann and publishes a blog


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