The great Nate Diaz had two of the biggest fights in MMA history last year. A trilogy fight with Conor McGregor would seem to be a natural. However, McGregor instead challenged then lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez, and won, becoming the first UFC fighter to win belts in two divisions. At the post-fight press conference, McGregor said he wanted equity to fight again, and it wouldn’t be until May when he and longtime partner Dee Devlin are expecting their first child.
Diaz was woefully underpaid for many years, until last year. Disclosed income went something like …
2013: $45,000
2014: $16,000
2015: $90,000
2016: $5,000,000
Nate wants to fight, but no longer for 50 grand. The UFC does not apparently have a big money fight him, so he has applied for a boxing license.
I know what this is: I’m being put on the shelf, said Diaz Saturday night to Lance Pugmire for the Los Angeles Times. That’s why I’m trying to get a boxing license.”
UFC President Dana White offered a response.
Nate said the only fight he wants is Conor … I haven’t heard a word from him [since August],” texted White. “Usually when guys want a fight, they call.
When White was told Diaz might like to hear first from the UFC president, White texted back an emoji face with rolled eyes.
However, Diaz told Pugmire he wants to be paid fairly given the extraordinary success of his last two fights.
No one in MMA wants it, said Daiz. No one says they want a big-deal fight against me. If someone wants to fight, then let’s make a big deal.
Make it happen Dana White.
Please.
