Nate Diaz is focused on boxing, but has opened the door to a UFC comeback.
The Stockton native was a huge fan-favourite during his time in the UFC, competing in some high-profile events including on two occasions against Conor McGregor, with both ranking in the top ten best-selling pay-per-views in UFC history.
Diaz will next face Masvidal in a huge event in the boxing ring on June 1, with his UFC contract having expired following his final win over Tony Ferguson.
But the American has once again reignited talk of a fresh campaign in the UFC, naming McGregor on his planned list of potential opponents before retirement.
He said at a press conference: “I 100% guarantee that I’m gonna fight Conor McGregor again.
“I 100% guarantee that I’m probably gonna fight Jake Paul again, [Jorge Masvidal] again and Leon Edwards again. That’s my hit list.”
He went on to add further context to his call for a rematch with Briton Edwards, concluding: “The coolest thing right now from the UFC is Leon Edwards.
“That’s what I got my sights on. I like that fight right now. I think he’s doing great.
“I think he got better and he’s doing better. Good attitude, good fighter.
“I think he’s probably the best thing in the UFC right now.”
Diaz lost to Jake Paul in his maiden venture away from the UFC, succumbing to a points decision in August 2023.
He also lost to Edwards during an epic five-round battle in June 2021.
McGregor and Diaz have one win apiece from their epic rivalry, with Diaz stunning the world with a submission win in March 2016.
The Irishman won their rematch five months later on points in August 2016, and a third fight has forever been on the lips of UFC fans.
Former two-weight champion McGregor has insisted Diaz remains part of his return plan in 2024.
He named Diaz in his own short-list, but will first return against Michael Chandler in a fight which is expected to be announced for June.
The 35-year-old hasn’t fought for several years since breaking his leg in defeat to Dustin Poirier in 2021.
UFC president Dana White still has a very positive relationship with Diaz, and would of course be keen to stage a third episode.
News Summary:
- Nate Diaz names four fight ‘hit list’ including Conor McGregor trilogy as he teases UFC return
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