Nate Diaz remains interested in returning to the UFC, but he indicates that compelling matchups would be necessary for him to sign a new contract. Diaz, who concluded a long-standing relationship with the promotion in 2022, is coming off mixed results in his boxing career, losing to Jake Paul and defeating Jorge Masvidal, the latter of which left him without financial compensation despite a packed arena.
In a recent interview on The HJR Podcast, Diaz expressed his willingness to rejoin the UFC, stating, “I plan on going back to UFC. If they’ll have me, I would like to go back and whoop someone’s ass there.” However, he clarified that he wouldn’t compete at 155 pounds anymore, citing a lack of interesting opponents as a deterrent for his return. “I don’t really have a name in mind right now in UFC, that’s why I’m not there right now,” he noted.
While a potential rematch with Conor McGregor looms on the horizon, Diaz mentioned that McGregor’s inactivity is a current barrier. Diaz remarked, “With time, for sure, whenever he’s back, I’m sure we’re going to fight. Me and him for sure have unfinished business.”
In addition to McGregor, Diaz showed enthusiasm for challenging some current holders of the BMF belt, calling it one of the most entertaining aspects of the UFC. He expressed interest in competing against fighters like Max Holloway and Ilia Topuria, even suggesting he would consider fighting at 185 pounds as well. He expressed a desire for more engaging matchups, stating, “Those are the guys right there that I would want to fight.”
With a year that has seen fewer enticing matchups for fans, a return of Diaz against either Holloway or McGregor would certainly generate excitement. Fans are hopeful that the UFC can re-engage Diaz with meaningful offers that satisfy both the fighter and the fight community.
Overall, Diaz’s attitude and vision for future fights suggest that while he might have stepped away after an extensive career, he still has the fire to compete at a high level. This could present opportunities for the UFC to revitalize interest and deliver thrilling matchups that fans are eager to see.