Diaz is the older brother of former UFC lightweight contender Nate Diaz. In September of last year, Nick made his first Octagon appearance in more than six years. He was rematching Robbie Lawler, an opponent he had previously faced when UFC was in its infancy.
While Nate Diaz is enjoying free agency and keeping all doors open for himself, Nick is looking to launch a comeback. This is particularly dubious due to the fact Diaz’ health is a big question mark due to his lengthy tenure in the sport and a shoddy way he looked during Robbie Lawler rematch.
Former UFC welterweight contender Nick Diaz intends to return to the Octagon next year. He still wants to face former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya.
Nick Diaz told Crazy Horse 3 in Las Vegas over the weekend.
“You can see me back on top in 2023. I’m going to be quicker than ever, stronger than ever, better than ever – I’m just gonna be a whole new me. Whoever is on top at the time [I want], preferably Israel Adesanya, if he gets his title back.”
Nick Diaz has gone 11 years without a victory in MMA. In his most recent professional victory, Diaz triumphed over B.J. Penn. He won against the former undisputed welterweight and lightweight champion of the UFC by unanimous decision in October 2011.
Back in June, Diaz’s coach and manager Cesar Gracie went on to reveal Nick Diaz is currently being operated on to replace 2 discs in his neck.
White previously discussed Diaz’ comments that he wants to come back against Kamaru Usman and shot down the rumors.
“I don’t want to see Nick Diaz get hurt,” White told Yahoo! Sports.
“Talking about Nick Diaz vs. Usman, Usman is the pound-for-pound best fighter in the world,” the UFC exec said. “I need to look out for Nick and make sure Nick doesn’t get hurt.”