Strikeforce CEO confirms Diaz vs. Hieron bout in jeopardy, resolution may come today

Originally posted on MMAjunkie.com

Previous reports that Nick Diaz missed a scheduled pre-fight drug screen with the California State Athletic Commission on Friday were today confirmed by Strikeforce CEO Scott Coker.

The executive confirmed the report on today's media call promoting the Aug. 15 event, "Carano vs. Cyborg," and Coker also said Diaz is currently in the process of submitting a sample to the CSAC.

Coker said he expects word from the commission on Thursday as to whether Diaz will be cleared to face Jay Hieron for Strikeforce's vacant welterweight title at the Showtime-broadcast event – though if the welterweight fails to show the bout could be scrapped today.

Diaz missed his original screen on Friday, citing his training regimen for the absence.

Coker went on state that the organization does have a back-up plan in place should Diaz be removed from the card – assuring Hieron would appear at the event – though he declined to elaborate on who would step up on short notice. Coker also would not clarify whether a potential replacement bout would still be for the organization's vacant 170-pound title.

Hieron was originally scheduled to face Paul Daley at the recently canceled "Affliction: Trilogy" event on Aug. 1. That event was scratched after headliner Josh Barnett failed a pre-fight drug screen, testing positive for anabolic steroids.

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