Diaz gets reduced fine for role in can frisbee match with McGregor
“Although the conduct of both Mr. McGregor and Mr. Diaz were similar, the director believes that Mr. McGregor deserves a slightly higher sanction.”
Prior to UFC 202 Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz’s camp got into an unfriendly game of water bottle frisbee, that Notorious one-upped with a Monster energy drink. Good news is the ensuing publicity pushed it to one of the biggest pay per view television buys in MMA history. Bad news is the Nevada Athletic Commission over-reacted, fining McGegor $150,000 and Diaz $50,000.
The NAC then tried to walk back the penalty, describing the $150,000 figure as being a $75,000 fine plus $75,000 worth of community service. Eventually, the sum was reduced to $25,000, and 25 hours of community service.
I just didn’t think that was fair,” said NAC executive director Bob Bennett of the original fine.
Now following a Wednesday meeting of the NAC, Diaz too has received a reduction in fine, to $15,000 (plus 15 hours of community service). The reduction was agreed to unanimously by the commission.
Although the conduct of both Mr. McGregor and Mr. Diaz were similar, the director believes that Mr. McGregor deserves a slightly higher sanction based on his enhanced conduct, notably the throwing of the full can of energy drink towards the crowd, said Nevada Deputy Attorney General Caroline Bateman.
Bennett reported in January that Diaz had paid his fine already, so presumably he is now due a refund.