Nate Diaz
The last MMA fight for Nate Diaz was in 2022, but he remains synonymous with entertainment, viewership, and ticket sales. At 40 years old, the Californian returns to the sport to face Mike Perry in the first live MMA card on Netflix, in a bout to determine the BMF of MVP MMA. The card is scheduled for this coming May 16th. According to Dana White, the contract Nate signed was even impossible to refuse.
UFC Boss Eyes a Diaz Comeback
At the press conference following UFC London, which took place on Saturday afternoon, the UFC president did not hide his fondness for Diaz and confirmed that he was interested in bringing him back to the Octagon, where he spent a large part of his career.
Dana White’s stance comes as no surprise. Months ago, he had already left the door open should the veteran decide to make his return. It is worth remembering that Nate left the UFC in 2022 and also never hid his intention to return to the Octagon, but he decided to prioritize Netflix after signing a lucrative contract. Aware of the proposal, Dana White admitted that he could not match the offer, but he did not rule out Nate’s return, despite his advanced age.
Hard to Turn Down
“He came and talked with me a few weeks ago. We had fun, and I think Nate received an offer that was hard to turn down. I haven’t spoken to him since then, but I’m happy for him.”
“Let him do what he wants. Then we’ll see how this fight plays out and what happens,” White said.
Minutes later on Joe Rogan’s podcast, the UFC commentator and media personality confirmed that Diaz will receive a little over 10 million dollars.
Stockton’s MMA Icon
Nate Diaz is one of the most popular fighters in MMA history. The Stockton, California native, known for his confrontational style, debuted in the sport in 2004. He only needed a few years to make his way to the UFC in 2007. During his time in the organization, he was crowned the winner of the fifth season of The Ultimate Fighter and was a lightweight title challenger.
Throughout his time in the sport, he compiled a record of 21-13, with notable victories against Anthony Pettis, Conor McGregor, and Donald Cerrone, among others. In his last bout in the Octagon, he submitted Tony Ferguson in the main event of UFC 279.
