Nate Diaz, the Stockton-born mixed martial artist known for his gritty style and outspoken personality, is eyeing a potential return to the UFC, but not for the fight many expect. While a trilogy bout against Conor McGregor remains a frequent topic of speculation among fans and analysts, Diaz has made it clear he’s prioritizing competitive matchups against fighters currently at the top of their game – specifically, he’s focused on a potential challenge for the UFC’s BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title. This preference for facing current champions over revisiting past rivalries underscores a shift in Diaz’s focus as he considers his next move in the sport.
The 40-year-traditional Diaz is currently preparing for a bout against Mike Perry on the MVP MMA: Rhonda Rousey vs. Gina Carano event on Netflix, scheduled for May 16. This fight, part of a growing series promoted by Most Valuable Promotions, represents a different path for Diaz outside the confines of the UFC, where he became a star. But, the door to a return to the octagon isn’t closed, and Diaz revealed he’s had conversations with UFC officials. The sticking point, he says, isn’t financial – he’s received offers from the UFC that rivaled those from MVP – but rather the quality of the opponent.
The BMF Title: Diaz’s Preferred Path
Diaz’s comments, made during an appearance on the “This Past Weekend w/Theo Von” podcast, highlighted his desire to compete against the best fighters in their prime. He specifically named former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira, who recently captured the BMF title with a dominant five-round decision victory over Max Holloway at UFC 326 on March 9, 2024. ESPN’s report on the fight detailed Oliveira’s grappling prowess and strategic approach that secured him the title.
The BMF belt itself has a unique history within the UFC. Diaz was the inaugural champion, winning it in a memorable clash against Jorge Masvidal at UFC 244 in October 2019. The fight, as covered by ESPN, ended with a doctor’s stoppage due to a severe cut Diaz sustained during the bout, awarding Masvidal the title. Diaz’s creation of the belt added a layer of spectacle and intrigue to the sport, and reclaiming it would hold significant symbolic value.
Why Not McGregor? A Matter of Timing and Respect
The prospect of a third fight with Conor McGregor has lingered for years. Their first two encounters, in March and August of 2016, were highly competitive and captivating, showcasing Diaz’s resilience and McGregor’s striking ability. However, Diaz expressed a reluctance to face McGregor at this stage of his career. “I’m not trying to kill off Conor when he’s on his last dying leg, literally,” Diaz stated, indicating a desire to compete against McGregor when he’s at his peak.
McGregor, 35, hasn’t competed since suffering a broken leg in a TKO loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021. ESPN’s coverage of the injury detailed the severity of the break and the lengthy rehabilitation process McGregor faced. While McGregor has expressed interest in returning to the cage later this year, potentially as early as July, Diaz appears hesitant to capitalize on a potentially vulnerable opponent. He as well voiced concern about facing someone who is still recovering from a significant injury, stating, “I’m not trying to obtain f—ed up by nobody who just got knocked out, broke his leg and now is nothing but motivated to fight me.”
The UFC’s Perspective and Diaz’s Leverage
Diaz’s departure from the UFC in 2022, after fulfilling the final bout on his contract, gave him increased leverage in negotiations. His move to Most Valuable Promotions, founded by his longtime manager, allowed him to explore opportunities outside the UFC’s ecosystem. The UFC, recognizing Diaz’s continued popularity and drawing power, has reportedly made offers to bring him back, but those offers, according to Diaz, haven’t aligned with his competitive goals.
The situation highlights a common dynamic in combat sports: the tension between lucrative, fan-driven matchups and a fighter’s desire for meaningful competition. Diaz’s willingness to walk away from potentially larger paydays in favor of facing top contenders demonstrates a commitment to his legacy and a desire to test himself against the best. This approach, while potentially limiting his immediate financial gains, could ultimately elevate his standing within the sport.
As Diaz prepares for his fight against Mike Perry, the possibility of a return to the UFC remains open. However, it’s clear that a trilogy fight with McGregor isn’t his priority. His focus is firmly set on challenging for the BMF title and proving he can still compete with the elite fighters in the lightweight division. The UFC’s next event, UFC 330 on June 8, will offer further insight into the landscape of the lightweight division and potentially create new opportunities for Diaz to pursue his goals.
The coming weeks will be crucial as Diaz continues his preparation for his fight against Perry and as the UFC navigates its evolving roster. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if a path emerges for Diaz to reclaim the BMF title and solidify his place as one of the most compelling figures in mixed martial arts history.
