via Getty
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – JULY 20: Leon Edwards of Jamaica stands in his corner prior to facing Rafael Dos Anjos in their welterweight bout during the UFC Fight Night event at AT&T Center on July 20, 2019 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
via Getty
SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – JULY 20: Leon Edwards of Jamaica stands in his corner prior to facing Rafael Dos Anjos in their welterweight bout during the UFC Fight Night event at AT&T Center on July 20, 2019 in San Antonio, Texas. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
Leon Edwards and Nate Diaz faced each other at the UFC 263 event. This fight was very important for both fighters, as a victory would mean an improvement in their standings in the welterweight division. Diaz was returning to the Octagon after a year and would have loved to show everyone he still is a great fighter. Whereas a victory for Edwards could drastically improve his chance of a title shot.
The fight between Diaz and ‘Rocky’ was the first 5 round non-title, non-main event fight in UFC history. And at the end of the fight, Edwards defeated Diaz via a unanimous decision. While Edwards dominated almost all the fight, he did survive a final round scare, which could have proven costly for him.
Leading up to the fight, Diaz and Edwards did take shots at each other. However, the fighters showed mutual respect after the fight was over. Recently ‘Rocky’ even tweeted about a piece of advice Diaz gave him after the fight.
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Nate told me after the fight “don’t let these motherfuckers tell you ain’t shit name your price or they will name it for you” and I felt that
— Leon 'Rocky' Edwards (@Leon_edwardsmma) June 14, 2021
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He wrote, “Nate told me after the fight, “don’t let these motherfuckers tell you ain’t shit name your price or they will name it for you,” and I felt that.”
What next for Nate Diaz and Leon Edwards?
Following his victory over Diaz, ‘Rocky’ would be hoping to challenge for a title soon. However, that seems unlikely for some time as Colby Covington seems to be next in line to challenge for the title.
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There are many other opponents Edwards could face next and even Masvidal is being touted as an option. Diaz, on the other hand, wants to get back to action as soon as possible. The fighter said that he would look to get back in the Octagon in the next few months.
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While no opponent is confirmed for Diaz as of now, Demian Maia may be the one he faces next.
Who do you think Nate Diaz and Leon Edwards should face next? Let us know in the comments.
