Nate Diaz Name Drops Title Contender for Surprising Return to MMA

Stockton legend Nate Diaz chooses interim title challenger Paddy Pimblett as his potential UFC return bout.

Nate Diaz Name Drops Title Contender for Surprising Return to MMA

Nate Diaz talks about his next fight (via MMA Fighting)

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Nate Diaz remains one of the most popular figures in combat sports, gaining fame through his performances and Stockton persona. He stays active across social media, commenting on matchups and future plans. Diaz continues to appear in training footage and combat sports circles. He recently discussed the possibility of facing Paddy Pimblett when speaking about his next fight.

Diaz made his UFC debut in 2007 and built a résumé that includes wins over Conor McGregor, Anthony Pettis, and Donald Cerrone. His final UFC appearance came in 2022 against Tony Ferguson at UFC 279. That bout closed out his contract with the promotion after more than a decade of competition. Since then, he has remained a central figure in discussions about potential returns.

Pimblett is set to face Justin Gaethje at UFC 324 in an interim lightweight title fight. The event will determine the next challenger for the undisputed championship later in the year. The Stockton native recently mentioned Pimblett when asked about his own fighting plans during a training session video. The timing created further speculation about whether their paths could eventually meet.

I’m looking at Pimblett. Probably Pimblett.

Nate Diaz via Instagram

Reports have circulated about Diaz possibly returning to the UFC, though no contract has been finalized. Beyond the UFC, BKFC champion Mike Perry has publicly targeted him for a bout under the Dirty Boxing banner. Diaz has also shown interest in a potential trilogy with Conor McGregor in a bare-knuckle setting. These discussions highlight the broad range of opportunities tied to his name.

Diaz has remained active in boxing as well, taking part in crossover events following his UFC departure. He fought Jake Paul in 2023 and lost by unanimous decision in his first major boxing event. In 2024, he secured a majority decision win over former UFC rival Jorge Masvidal. These appearances have kept him engaged in high-profile combat sports matchups.

Nate Diaz has been out of the UFC rankings for a long time, making any return dependent on promotional decisions rather than standings. Pimblett enters UFC 324 with an interim lightweight title opportunity that could elevate him in the division. A win would move him toward a shot at champion Ilia Topuria. This creates a clear competitive gap between him and Diaz if a matchup were considered.

Nate Diaz maintains his stance on Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua after being trolled

Jake Paul is set to face former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, a matchup that has raised skepticism within the UFC community due to the size and experience gap between the two. Many questioned how Paul would handle a proven world-level boxer. Despite this, Nate Diaz gave his support to Paul ahead of the bout. His choice drew attention because of their past rivalry.

Jake Paul trolls Nate Diaz
Jake Paul trolls Nate Diaz (via MMA Fighting, AP News)

During the initial press events for the Joshua fight, Paul trolled Diaz’s support by labeling it as negative publicity aimed at boosting promotion. The exchange revived their long-running rivalry outside the ring and drew added attention to their past clashes. Diaz nevertheless recently stood by his prediction for the bout despite the mockery.

I got my money on Paul, He might get his (expletive) knocked out, but if he don’t, Paul’s going to win.

Nate Diaz via Instagram

The stakes surrounding Paul vs. Joshua extend beyond the immediate matchup, shaping how crossover boxing events are viewed in the future. A bout between a former heavyweight champion and a crossover star continues to blur the lines between entertainment and competition. Nate Diaz remains part of the conversation as his predictions and rivalry ties keep him connected to the event’s narrative.

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