Dana White Provides a Sad Update for Nate Diaz Fans in 2021

Nate Diaz has been out of action since his loss to Jorge Masvidal at UFC 244, in 2019. The Stockton native lost the bout for the BMF title via doctor stoppage.

Diaz ended a 3-year long absence at UFC 241 against Anthony Pettis. His last outing prior to that was a decision loss to Conor McGregor at UFC 202. Diaz has been very inconsistent with his activity in the Octagon.

There have been suggestions, though, that he might return in 2021. But UFC President Dana White didn’t seem to validate those claims too much. White mentioned that he wants Diaz to be back in action but can’t guarantee that it will happen for sure.

In a Q&A with Laura Sanko, White said, ” I hope (he fights this year), I hope so. I’d like to see him fight. I’m not counting on it, but I’d like to see him fight.”

There have been speculations that the trilogy fight between Conor McGregor and Diaz can happen in 2021. McGregor is back in action and will fight Dustin Poirier at UFC 257. But White isn’t sure that can happen in 2021.

“Probably not,” was White’s response when asked if McGregor vs Diaz 3 is a possibility for 2021.

Nate Diaz hasn’t stopped training despite the Octagon hiatus

The Ultimate Fighter season 5 winner keeps himself in shape even though he is out of the competition. Diaz trains with his older brother Nick Diaz in the latter’s academy. They also do other sports like the triathlon, apart from fighting.

Fans will be hoping to see the younger Diaz brother back in the Octagon soon. Despite his irregular outings, Diaz remains one of the biggest draws and a fan-favorite in his own right. And at only 35, he still has some more competition left on him.

The trilogy with Conor McGregor or a rematch against Jorge Masvidal remains possibilities for Diaz. At this stage of his career, Diaz is only interested in money-making bouts.

When will we see Nate Diaz back in the Octagon? Whom should he fight upon his return?