Everything seemed to be going well for UFC head honcho Dana White and his billion-dollar promotion this year, but as we near the end of the year and approach the final UFC pay-per-view event, UFC 310, setbacks have begun piling up. Recently, the event faced a significant blow when welterweight champion Belal Muhammad was forced to withdraw due to a foot infection, leaving his opponent, Shavkat Rakhmonov, to be matched against Ian Garry.

Now, another piece of unfortunate news has emerged from the UFC 310 card. This time, it’s another welterweight bout—Nick Diaz vs. Vicente Luque—that has been hit with changes. Stockton native has pulled out of the event, as reported by MMA Mania’s Alex Behunin on Twitter. He wrote: “Nick Diaz is out of #UFC310. Themba Gorimbo has stepped in to fight Vicente Luque, per sources.”

Last week, a viral video surfaced online featuring Nick Diaz shirtless in public, attempting to ignite a random piece of grass. In the background, a concerned voice can be heard calling his name and asking if he was okay. Stockton native responded by raising his hand, seemingly confirming his identity. The incident gained further attention when his ex-girlfriend posted an Instagram story that read: “D–rugs always come to an end. Addiction either takes your life or you become sober.”

Nick Diaz and his younger brother, Nate Diaz, are well-known advocates for marijuana use. This stance led to Nick receiving a five-year suspension from the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) after testing positive for marijuana following his middleweight bout against Anderson Silva. It was his third violation, leading to a hefty fine of $165,000 and a lengthy suspension. However, upon his return five years later, his situation has only deteriorated.

Throwback: When Robbie Lawler offered help to Nick Diaz

For casual fight fans, Nick Diaz might not hold much significance, but to longtime MMA enthusiasts, his legacy is truly unforgettable. He was remembered in many ways: as a rebellious outspoken figure, a hardcore fighter, an anti-hero, and a symbol of brotherhood and loyalty. His unyielding attitude earned him a devoted fanbase that admired him not only as a fighter but also as a symbol of defiance in MMA culture.

However, life hasn’t been easy for the multi-promotion champion. From a young age, Diaz faced numerous setbacks, but the death of the love of his life was a blow that shook him deeply. After her passing, Nick made a promise at her grave to become the best fighter, which he eventually achieved. However, his path was marred by drug abuse, which cost him dearly.

Even in his last fight at UFC 266, a long-awaited rematch against Robbie Lawler after 17 years, Diaz suffered a knockout loss—a disappointing outcome. Concerned about Diaz’s mental and physical state, Lawler reached out, asking, “Are you good?” Stockton native replied, “All good, man.” Lawler then asked, “Are you good… in life?” and suggested Diaz reach out if he ever needed support, but Stockton native didn’t respond. Despite their struggles, both fighters captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

Now, all eyes are on Nick Diaz, and his brother Nate Diaz, who has remained silent on the matter, is drawing attention. Given the UFC’s decision to remove Stockton native from the upcoming UFC 310, this may be the perfect moment for the Diaz brothers to break their silence and address the fans. Stay tuned for more updates.