4. Fighting at 155lbs (less of a speed advantage)
Leading into the last fight Conor took off weight in order to improve his cardio, which didn’t exactly work. Nate on the other decided to put on weight, and was probably at the heaviest we’ve ever seen him at UFC 202. While the size difference might have appeared to give Conor the advantage, I’m not certain that Conor didn’t benefit more from having an increased speed advantage. Nate had trouble catching up to Conor (via running) and also landing strikes on him, just because Conor was so quick and able to get away. That quickness and ability to get away should be decreased as Nate will have to shed pounds to get back to his lightweight frame.
Nate’s always looked more comfortable fighting at lightweight, so considering both parties have already agreed to the next bout being at 155lbs, you can consider that an advantage for Diaz.
