Nick Diaz is set to make a stunning return to the UFC, as confirmed by UFC president Dana White. The iconic fighter, revered alongside his brother Nate, will step back into the octagon on August 3 in Abu Dhabi, facing off against Vicente Luque.
Diaz, who appeared to have retired after his loss to Robbie Lawler in September 2021, announced last year his desire to find an opponent for a comeback. Now 40 years old, Diaz will fight for the second time since 2015 in what promises to be an exciting five-round bout.
The Abu Dhabi event will also feature a shocking return for 155lbs star Tony Ferguson, who will take on Michael Chiesa to open the card. Ferguson, on a seven-fight losing streak, last fought against Paddy Pimblett in December 2023. The headliner for the event will see Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov battling to establish the top contender in the bantamweight division.
For Diaz, the match against Luque is a formidable challenge. Diaz has not won a fight since October 2011 when he defeated BJ Penn by judges’ decision. Since then, he has faced legendary fighters like Anderson Silva and Georges St-Pierre, and now aims for a triumphant return. A victory could hint at a more permanent comeback, despite being past his prime.
After his loss to Lawler, Diaz openly discussed his struggles, admitting he was not in the best condition for a return. Speaking on the Dying To See Me podcast, Diaz explained, “I went into training camp, and I kind of got backed into it, too. I was in between management, it wasn’t like when I went and found a group to work with and organize my situation. I couldn’t amount to a level of athleticism I needed to be competitive, and I knew that going into the fight. I just needed to get that first fight out, I hadn’t fought in a long time. I’d never fought under those conditions.”
Fans are eagerly anticipating whether Diaz can make the necessary improvements to secure a win against Luque, whose unique fighting style promises an intriguing match-up.
Credit: Talksport
