Nate Diaz appears open to a UFC return — if the promotion is ready to welcome him back.
Diaz (21-13 MMA, 16-11 UFC), who parted ways with the UFC after submitting Tony Ferguson in September 2022, has since explored boxing bouts against Jake Paul and Jorge Masvidal. However, during a recent appearance on The HJR Podcast, he confirmed a desire to fight in the octagon again.
“I plan on going back to UFC,” Diaz said. “If they’ll have me, I would like to go back and f***ing whoop someone’s ass there. I’m not fighting at 155 pounds, though.”
Diaz, now focused on higher weight classes, admitted there’s no specific name drawing him back just yet. Still, several potential opponents stand out — particularly old rival Conor McGregor. The two fighters split their memorable two-fight series in 2016, with Diaz winning the first by submission and McGregor edging a majority decision in the rematch.
“Whenever he’s back, I’m sure we’re going to fight,” Diaz said. “Me and him for sure got unfinished business.”
Diaz also expressed interest in the BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title, a belt he helped inspire but lost to Masvidal in 2019 via doctor stoppage. Max Holloway currently holds the title and is set to defend it against Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 on July 19.
“Those are the guys right there who I would want to fight,” Diaz said, mentioning Holloway and UFC featherweight champ Ilia Topuria. Still, he ruled out returning to lightweight due to years of brutal weight cuts.
“I’m staying at 170. I’ll fight at 185, too,” Diaz said.
Whether Diaz gets the matchups he wants or not, one thing’s clear: he’s not done with fighting — and the UFC may not be done with him either.
Photo: Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
