The combat sports world often thrives on speculation, but few narratives ignite as fiercely as the potential return of Nate Diaz. After a period of relative quiet since his boxing victory over Jorge Masvidal last year, the Stockton, California, native has unequivocally declared his intentions for a 2025 comeback, and his list of desired opponents is nothing short of audacious, spanning the pinnacle of both mixed martial arts and boxing.
The Octagon Beckons: Old Rivalries and New Challenges
For many, the mention of Nate Diaz inevitably conjures images of his iconic rivalry with Conor McGregor. Their two legendary encounters, marked by an upset submission victory for Diaz at UFC 196 and a razor-thin majority decision loss in the rematch at UFC 202, etched themselves into UFC lore. Now, with both fighters reportedly planning returns, the prospect of a trilogy bout looms large.
Diaz`s recent comments on the Out Cold podcast reveal his typical blend of respect and competitive fire. While expressing a desire for McGregor to “come back and impress everybody first,” it`s a classic Diaz maneuver, cloaked in mock humility while subtly challenging his rival to reclaim his prior formidable aura before their potential clash. A third chapter is not merely a fight; it`s a legacy-defining saga that could once again captivate millions.
Beyond the echoes of past glories, Diaz has also cast his gaze upon a new, dominant force in the UFC: Ilia Topuria. The recently crowned lightweight champion, Topuria, represents the cutting edge of the sport. While acknowledging Topuria might be “a little small for me” (a quintessential Diaz understatement, given the weight disparity, yet hinting at a potential move to welterweight for Topuria), the very mention signals Diaz`s desire to test himself against the current standard-bearer, suggesting that true challenges supersede traditional weight class boundaries for a fighter of his caliber.
Boxing Dreams: Facing the Undisputed Kings
But Diaz`s ambitions don`t stop at the Octagon`s fence. His recent foray into boxing, marked by a majority decision win over Jorge Masvidal, has evidently whetted his appetite for more. His sights are now firmly set on two of boxing`s undisputed titans: Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford. To challenge either of these pugilistic maestros is not merely stepping into a different sport; it`s a declaration of intent to face the absolute apex predators of boxing. These are not `tune-up` fights; these are Everest ascents.
Both Canelo, with his formidable counter-punching and devastating body work, and Crawford, a masterful switch-hitter with unparalleled ring IQ, represent distinct and monumental challenges for any fighter, let alone one primarily known for MMA. Diaz’s candid declaration, “I ain’t asking for nothing, but when I whoop someone’s a–, I’m gonna get them m———–, too,” encapsulates his raw, unapologetic confidence and his conviction that his path to the top involves conquering the very best, regardless of the discipline.
The Enduring Diaz Mystique: Age, Ambition, and Authenticity
At 40 years old, many might expect a fighter to seek more forgiving matchups, perhaps a celebratory farewell tour. Nate Diaz, however, appears to operate on a different temporal and competitive plane. His inclusion of champions like Topuria and undisputed boxing kings like Canelo and Crawford on his wish list speaks volumes about his enduring drive and his disdain for anything less than a significant challenge.
It`s this raw, unfiltered authenticity, coupled with his fan-friendly, relentless fighting style, that transforms any Diaz bout into a guaranteed spectacle, irrespective of its perceived competitiveness. His career has been defined by taking on all comers, often against the odds, and delivering memorable performances. This latest round of call-outs is a stark reminder that the “Stockton Slapper” remains committed to the highest echelons of combat sports.
Whether these ambitious matchups materialize remains to be seen. The complexities of contract negotiations, weight classes, and promotional rivalries are formidable hurdles in the intricate landscape of combat sports. Yet, Nate Diaz`s audacious statements have already succeeded in one crucial aspect: they have reignited the conversation, reminded the world of his unique presence, and set the stage for what could be an extraordinary, if predictably chaotic, chapter in his already legendary career.
Gareth Pendleton