Nate Diaz Interested in UFC Return after Jake Paul Bout
Nate Diaz has taken full advantage of his free agency after leaving the UFC. The combat sports superstar is set to make his pro boxing debut against Jake Paul on Aug. 23, 2023. However, it looks like this bout could be a one-and-done as Diaz is aiming to beat Paul and return to the UFC.
“Besides Canelo he’s the biggest thang in boxing. I’m here to conquer that. I’m the King of combat sports and then I’m headed back to get my UFC belts,” Diaz said. “I f—ed up Conor for acting out and now here I am again, like a Super Hero of the Real Fight game, the King of the Real Fight game.”
Quote via DAZN Press Release
It looks like Diaz is clearly fed up with influencer boxing and is looking to end the ordeal. Throughout his career, Diaz has long been a proponent of being a ‘real fighter’ and even started a combat sports promotion titled Real Fight Inc. that looks to embody that philosophy.
If Diaz can beat Paul, it may end Paul’s pro boxing career. It would be very difficult for Paul to draw the required interest in big fights after losing two fights in a row. If Diaz can accomplish that goal, it looks like he will return to the UFC. In that sense, Diaz is looking to play hero and be the MMA fighter to beat Paul.
The UFC would likely welcome Diaz back to the UFC with open arms. Simply put, he is still a star. As long as Diaz’s star power remains that door will remain open.
With that being said, if Nate Diaz loses to Jake Paul, his UFC career would be finished. It would be a terrible look for the UFC to sign Diaz coming off a loss to Paul.
The UFC would not have any trouble finding an opponent for Diaz. The trilogy between Diaz and Conor McGregor will almost always be on the table. At the same time, fights against Michael Chandler, Dustin Poirier, or any other exciting fighter would peak fan interest even if Diaz would be a sizeable underdog.
Diaz’s willingness to return to the UFC answers some questions about the pair’s relationship. For a long period of time, Diaz was unhappy with his UFC contract and wanted out of the promotion. In hindsight, Diaz was likely asking out so he could fight Paul.
All in all, Diaz’s willingness to return suggests that his relationship with the UFC may not be as rocky as previously thought.
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