“All They Had to Do Is Exist”: After “Rookie A**” Press Conference With Jake Paul, Nate Diaz Reminded of the Stern Reality of Fight Promotions Without “UFC Machinery”

Nate Diaz has always embraced his authentic self, unapologetically standing by his values and beliefs. His aversion to the promotional aspects of the fight business has long been recognized among avid fight fans. However, as the ex-UFC fighter gears up for his highly anticipated boxing match against Jake Paul, scheduled for August 5, 2023, it seems that the 38-year-old mixed martial artist is finding it hard to enjoy the whole process of selling the fight. Recently, he expressed his dissatisfaction with the press conference.

“I don’t know where all the f**king people are at. We wouldn’t have no normal people for the press conference? Whose idea was this? We should’ve had a hundred normal people in here… This is a sketch a** press conference. F**king rookie as** press conference.”, said the 38-year-old. Clearly frustrated, he even stormed out of the presser, unable to tolerate the situation.

Now, as a free agent, the responsibility of promoting his portion of the event falls entirely on Diaz’s shoulders. It is evident that the former UFC star is not relishing this role. MMA journalist Danny Segura recently shed light on the challenges Nate Diaz faces in the absence of the promotional machinery that was once taken care of during his time in the UFC.

Nate Diaz being reminded the perks of being in the UFC

The pressure to promote the fight single-handedly has become an uphill battle for Diaz, who is used to having the support and infrastructure that a larger organization like the UFC provides.

Speaking of which, Danny Seguro from MMA Junkie stated how people often overlook the advantage they gain by being part of the UFC, which lies in the fact that the UFC excels at promotional activities.

“The fighter didn’t have to do anything, didn’t have to move a single finger. Nothing. All they had to do is exist and have a highlight reel package and that’s it. They’re getting their face blasted across different markets and getting millions and millions to pay attention to their next, upcoming fight.”

Read more: Ariel Helwani Blasts Jake Paul for “Sh*tting” on Nate Diaz’s Record During the Media-Only Press Conference: “Makes No Sense”

Furthermore, the MMA journalist stated how easy the fighters’ job is in the UFC than being a free agent. “You show up to a press conference, you barely wanna answer questions. Or you no show and this, and still millions of people are gonna get to know you because UFC machinery is there. That is all gone.”

In this situation, Nate Diaz finds himself between a rock and a hard place. With the absence of a well-oiled promotional machine backing him, he must now do what is needed to promote his upcoming boxing match. It’s a tough pill to swallow for Diaz, who has always prioritized authenticity over flashy marketing tactics.

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