Nick Diaz hit with five-year ban for marijuana use

Nick Diaz has been given an unprecedented five-year ban after testing positive for marijuana during the aftermath of his defeat to Anderson Silva in January.

The suspension has been handed down by the Nevada State Athletic Commission.

Diaz, 32, was defeated by Anderson Silva by a unanimous decision, and while Silva tested positive for steroids before and after the fight leading him to be fined $380,000 (£245,000) and banned for one year, Diaz has been fined $165,000 (£106,000) as well as the five-year suspension.

The Californian also tested positive for marijuana following his win against Takanori Gomi in 2007, as well as his 2012 defeat to Carlos Condit.

Diaz's camp have said that they will appeal the suspension.