After a disappointing outing against Jake Paul last year, Nate Diaz redeemed himself last weekend with an impressive win over Jorge Masvidal (watch highlights). The two UFC legends boxed it out over 10 rounds and threw nearly 1,400 punches during that time. Two judges thought Diaz’s punches and ring control were slightly more effective, earning him the majority decision.
And with that win, Diaz is back in a position to make a ton of money in his free agent era.
Unfortunately, two of the guys he’s voiced an interest in fighting are under UFC contract. The Stockton fighter has unfinished business with Conor McGregor and 170-pound champion, Leon Edwards. In a new interview with Submission Radio, Diaz’s coach, Cesar Gracie, discussed those possibilities.
Gracie expressed her belief that a trilogy between Diaz and McGregor would be a logical choice for both fighters. She also acknowledged that a fight between Chandler and McGregor would be interesting, but considering the extensive history between Nate and McGregor, she believed a trilogy would generate more excitement among fans. In her opinion, that is what she thinks should happen.
Gracie commented that Nate seems to have maintained his skill level without any noticeable decline. In contrast, McGregor has been absent from the sport for quite some time and hasn’t achieved victory in a while. Gracie believes that Nate would have the upper hand in this matchup due to his resilience and experience. She also emphasizes that extended breaks from the game can be detrimental to fighters, making it challenging for them to regain their former prowess. Regardless of whether McGregor faces Chandler or another opponent, Gracie anticipates significant difficulties for him in reaching his previous peak performance.
As for Edwards, Gracie believes Diaz already showed the world he has the tools to beat “Rocky.”
“He’s definitely at the peak of his performance,” he remarked, referring to Edwards. “One thing about Nate is that he consistently possesses the skills needed to outsmart his opponents. In their fight, Edwards unleashed some incredibly powerful strikes. I witnessed a variety of kicks and punches, and he managed to secure victory in a few rounds.”
“However, to be completely truthful, it was evident to all the fans that if there had been another round, Edwards would have been knocked out in that fight,” concluded Gracie.
He then proposed that the most effective approach to defeat Diaz in a fight was to evade direct confrontation and instead aim for a victory by carefully securing a decision.
Nate Diaz’s chin makes zero scientific sense. #LastManStanding pic.twitter.com/RdvfgDbHZm
— MacMally (@MacMallyMMA) July 7, 2024
Gracie mentioned that if you choose to engage in a strategic and cautious fight, there is a possibility of defeating him. However, attempting to forcefully knock him out might lead to unfavorable consequences. Therefore, the outcome of that night would ultimately depend on our observations and approach.
It’s all a bit academic at this point with Diaz outside of UFC. If the promotion wants him back, they’re going to have to back up a few trucks full of money to get him. And there’s no more denying his ability to move the needle after 18,040 people turned up for the Masvidal fight in Anaheim.
Gracie expressed her admiration for the significant financial compensation received by their top personnel. She acknowledged Nate’s status as a revered figure in the sport, attributing it to his hard-fought journey and deserving rewards. His presence brings immense star power, evident by the sold-out event last night, which can be attributed to Nate Diaz’s involvement.
Gracie firmly concluded that the show would not have attracted any attendees if it weren’t for Nate Diaz, emphasizing its immense popularity.
BMF belt redemption next, perhaps?
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