Conor McGregor and Ilia Topuria Named as Nate Diaz Reveals Pipeline for UFC Comeback

UFC veteran Nate Diaz talks about coming back from retirement and potentially fighting Conor McGregor or Ilia Topuria next.

Conor McGregor and Ilia Topuria Named as Nate Diaz Reveals Pipeline for UFC Comeback

Nate Diaz wants to finish his trilogy with Conor McGregor and potentially fight Ilia Topuria next (via Imago/X)

There are very few veteran UFC stars more popular than Nate Diaz, known for his unique personality and unforgettable fight history. The fighter retires from UFC back in 2022 after a long career filled with wars and passionate fan support throughout. However, the veteran has shown interest in coming back to the promotion and has aimed to fight top UFC contenders again.

Since retirement from UFC, Diaz pursued boxing, testing his skills against Jake Paul and Jorge Masvidal in high-profile crossover bouts. Diaz recently did an interview with the HJR podcast, where he discussed multiple topics, including a potential return to UFC. He has aimed to fight the likes of Conor McGregor, reigniting their legendary rivalry cherished within the passionate global MMA fanbase.

I’m planning to going back to UFC if they will have me. I’m not fighting at 55 (lightweight division) though…Me and him (Conor McGregor) for sure got unfinished business.

Diaz was the first to stop McGregor’s undefeated UFC run, submitting him at UFC 196 in a stunning upset victory. Despite McGregor’s momentum, Diaz shocked everyone by enduring early damage and forcing the tap from the confident Irish superstar. However, in the second fight, McGregor emerged victorious by decision, evening the score and keeping their rivalry dramatically unresolved.

Since then, both fighters have often discussed their trilogy bout, recognizing its massive pay-per-view potential and unmatched fan interest globally. Apart from that, Diaz is also interested in fighting for the iconic BMF title against the current contenders. He also sent a warning reminding everyone of the belt’s legacy, which was inaugurated by him and Masvidal in 2019.

I hope you know, you are wearing my belt. Those are the guys I want to fight. Like Max Holloway. I want to fight the other guy, who’s really good, Topuria.

Max Holloway is currently scheduled to fight the legendary Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 with the BMF title on the line. On the other hand, Ilia Topuria is preparing for the UFC lightweight title clash with Charles Oliveira at UFC 317. Nevertheless, it would be interesting to see whether Diaz is serious about his UFC comeback and gets his ideal opponent.

Nate Diaz talks about his bottle-throwing brawls

Nate Diaz’s gangster personality was originally stated by his brother Nick Diaz, who embodied the street-tough attitude throughout his entire career. Later, Nate carried on that same legacy, embracing the raw authenticity and fearless mindset that made the Diaz brothers cult icons. His unapologetic demeanor, refusal to back down, and realness solidified his image as MMA’s ultimate anti-hero.

Nate Diaz's habit of getting involved in public altercations
Nate Diaz’s habit of getting involved in public altercations (via X)

The Stockton native always walks around with his entourage, maintaining a strong presence and never allowing anyone to disrespect or provoke him publicly. As a result, he has often gotten into various altercations and faced legal troubles stemming from those intense public confrontations. In many altercations, Diaz was seen throwing bottles at rivals, a signature move, and he recently explained the reason for it.

Let me tell you something, you see how I’ve got this bottle [of water]? I stay hydrated. I always have water on me, no matter where I’m at. You should see next to my bed in my room, I’ve got f*cking 15 waters from every night. Then someone starts popping off, [I throw the bottle] like shut up, bitch.

It got famous when Diaz threw bottles at Conor McGregor during their infamous press conference, igniting chaos and intensifying their rivalry. Later, he received a fine of $15K and 15 hours of community service from the Nevada State Athletic Commission. Recently, Diaz did the same to Islam Makhachev, showing he still carries that unpredictable energy wherever he goes in public.

Also Read: