WWE launched its wellness policy in 2006, introducing drug testing focused on steroids and other potentially abused medications. Over time, the company added marijuana to the list—though unlike other substances, a positive test for weed didn’t lead to a suspension, just a fine.
On a recent episode of his *Marking Out* podcast, MVP shared how he used to handle those fines when marijuana testing was introduced.
"When the wellness policy started at WWE, initially, they only tested for steroids and hard drugs; they didn't test for cannabis. Then, as I recall, all the pillheads started complaining, 'These other guys get to smoke weed.' They added cannabis, but it wasn't a suspension; it was just a \$1000 Fine. At that point, I was on the rocket ship, I was making ridiculous money, especially for me at that time. I said, 'If they test us once a month and the fine is \$ 1,000, that's \$ 12,000 a year.' I went to John Laurinaitis and said, 'Can I just give you a \$12,000 check for the year? I'm gonna smoke.' Eventually, they bumped the fine up to \$2500. It was me and three other guys, I won't bring their names up, but we would check to see who is in first place. Finally, after a couple of \$2,500 fines, plus the numerous $1,000 fines....I could have bought a new car for these fines for weed. I finally stopped smoking for a while," he said.
As of now, marijuana is no longer included on WWE's banned substance list.
MVP was part of WWE from 2005 to 2010 during his first run. He’s currently signed with AEW.
(H/T and transcribed by Fightful)
