Thanks Everyone!
I think most Mazdas built in Japan come to Irvine, CA before going to US dealerships. Meaning, my car didn't come with a title, it came with a Certificate of Origin when I received it in Germany (155mph daily and legally is simply awesome!). Thus the issue with Fed Emission standards only. Seems ironic that Mazda just doesn't make all their cars CARB approved. If it is just the Cat, I'm guessing they're pinching pennies on the catalyst materials in the cat.
I'll have it smogged and see what it'll read. Once out of state tags expire, how many days do I have to get it renewed, before getting a ticket!!!??