Nick Diaz is all set to return to the octagon. The Stockton native will face his next opponent on 25 September at UFC 266. The match will serve as a co-main event ahead of Alexander Volkanovski vs Brian Ortega.
Stockton’s very own fought his last battle against Anderson Silva at UFC 183 in 2015. After that Diaz took a six years-long hiatus from fighting. However, the former welterweight will return to the cage now.
For his comeback fight, Diaz will square off against Robbie Lawler in a five-round non-title scrap. However, this is not the first time UFC has set a non-title five-bout. Nick’s brother, Nate Diaz, did the same against Leon Edwards at UFC 263.
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Lawler and Diaz have faced each other inside the octagon in the past. The fight ended up with the Stockton native standing on his feet. Diaz knocked out Lawler in the second round of the fight and brought the fans to their feet. This match garnered a lot of attention from the combat fans.
Although both the fighters have passed their prime now, the combat fans are eagerly waiting for this rematch to happen. It was a highly entertaining fight to watch when both met inside the octagon. While Diaz could have opted to face any of the modern-day fighters, he opted to rematch Lawler. Here’s why.
Nick Diaz Fights Robbie Lawler for His Comeback
Nick Diaz defeated Robbie Lawler in their first at UFC 42. However, both the men were in their prime then. After defeating Donald Cerrone, ‘Ruthless’ went on a four-fight skid. The latter fought his last against Neil Magny. This rematch against Diaz gives Robbie Lawler a chance to avenge his loss at UFC 42.
Meanwhile, Diaz hanged his gloves after his last against Anderson Silva. The Stockton native is 38 now and, given his last fight results, the fighter might not be the same as he was in his prime. Hence, this might be a reason for choosing ‘Ruthless’ for his comeback bout, as would be an even fight.
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Also, this rematch might garner a lot of attention from the fans and critics, as their first fight was a hit. And also the promotion might profit from pay-per-view as this rematch is already in talks and gaining a lot of attention.
All in all, this rematch can differ greatly from the first fight. It may go to a distance and turn the tables or might face the same fate.
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Who do you think will win this rematch?