Nate Diaz has Warned the UFC that the Conor McGregor Trilogy Fight Might Never Happen Unless it Makes Financial Sense…
We haven’t seen Nate Diaz since August 20, 2016, when he lost to Conor McGregor at UFC 223. It was a phenomenal fight, that has since been voted by fans as the greatest UFC fight ever. That’s a bold claim, but there’s no denying that it was back and forth bloody war.
Of course, that wasn’t their first match-up. The pair first faced off at UFC 196, earlier that year. Diaz came into that fight as a massive underdog, as he was replacing Rafael dos Anjos on less than two weeks notice. He went on to shock the world, inflicting Conor McGregor’s first UFC loss, by way of submission.
Since then both fighters have talked the talk about completing their trilogy. With both men expected to return sometime in 2018, it’s highly possible that their comeback could be against each other. However, Diaz has warned the UFC he isn’t motivated by glory, but money.
Out of Action
For nearly two years Diaz seems to have enjoyed sitting back and spending his newfound riches. That second fight against McGregor was the most lucrative of his career. He’s shown no desire to fight anyone except the Irishman, but would happily take a shot at the lightweight title.
One of the most popular fighters in the game, Diaz is renowned for not caring a bit what anyone thinks about him. This makes him, and older brother Nick, very entertaining. We all love to see a ‘Stockton Slap’.
Open to Offers
Diaz’s teammate and fellow member of the Skrap Pack, Jake Shields has informed the MMA Hour that the Californian is open to offers, but basically wants his value met. Until then, Diaz is happy to sit on the sidelines. Shields said:
“He’s not just looking for Conor. He’s looking for a fight that makes sense and that’s going to give him a big payday and a lot of hype.”
Hmmm, when has the UFC ever tried to underpay a fighter? Only every single contract they’ve ever written. Diaz is justified in biding his time. The company is desperate for big-name action, and there is no doubt that Diaz carries stardust.
Who Else?
If he doesn’t fight McGregor who could he fight? There’s actually a few interesting options. Tony Ferguson is one possibility. ‘El Cucuy’ is out of action with a torn LCL, for about 6 months. However, a win over Ferguson would immediately propel Diaz into credible title contention and let the UFC how much of a draw he is without McGregor.
Another exciting option is Kevin Lee. The ‘Motown Phenom’ is a very divisive figure. Some love him, some hate him, but there’s no denying that he’s potential box office material. Once again, he’s close to the top so both men would have something to gain by fighting each other. Can you imagine the trash talk?
Realistically McGregor’s most likely next opponent is Khabib Nurmagamedov anyway. The momentum has fizzled out of a trilogy fight between the ‘Notorious’ and Diaz. However, wins for both men could reignite the fire. Who would you like to see Diaz fight next?
