Nate Diaz - the madman from Stockton, the one who shocks, gasps, bleeds, and sells out arenas. He is one of the few mixed martial arts athletes who transcends MMA and boxing, while making a living both inside the Octagon and beyond, with an attitude and following that few others possess. His fans have often asked: Is he done? Or does he have one last show?
In the past few months (2025), there has seemingly been more than a few signs that Nate might be plotting his next big comeback. Not just some random fight, but something that resonates with the legacy he has built. Whether it is for UFC, boxing, or a crossover, the question some fans are asking is, "Is Nate Diaz coming back?"
This article will cover everything in-between: his history, what he has said recently, possible opponents, obstacles, and probability. Furthermore, his comeback and what it may mean for MMA/boxing, what fans want, and what Nate appears to be ready for.
Nate Diaz: A Quick Recap
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Why Diaz’s Comeback Matters
Diaz is not a typical title-seeker. He is a fighter that will provide:
Unpredictability — You never know what he’ll do next.
Authenticity — He talks like the streets and not a PR talking point.
Warrior Spirit — He’ll never back down, even battered and bloodied.
Box Office Value — Whether he wins or loses, they’re selling the fight.
A Diaz comeback is not just a fight for the UFC — it’s a cultural event.
What Nate Diaz Has Said About His Future
"I want to come back to the UFC... assuming they will let me."
"I'm not fighting for no reason. I want to fight big fighters - Conor, Holloway, Topuria."
"But if I'm coming back, I'm coming back for something that means something - like a title fight."
It is clear he isn't coming back for filler fights. He is looking for big names, legacy fights, or title opportunities.
Possible Opponents For Diaz’s Return
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Barriers In The Way
Age - At 40, Nate is not a spring chicken.
Ring rust - It's been a while since he was in the octagon - 2022.
Negotiations with the UFC - Diaz has been known to have tough negotiations and won't sign unless it meets his standard.
Motivation - Is Nate coming back for glory or paydays?
Opponent Availability - There is no shortage of opponents McGregor, Holloway, Topuria - but all have schedules.
Likelihood Of A Comeback
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nate Diaz’s Legacy At Stake
If Diaz comes back and wins:
His legend grows even bigger.
He proves age is just a number.
UFC viewership spikes.
If he comes back and loses badly:
Critics say he should’ve stayed retired.
Risk of damaging aura.
May turn into “celebrity fights only.”
3 years ago, Nate Diaz fought in the UFC for the last time.
— MMA On Point (@OnPointMMA) September 10, 2025
The UFC wanted to feed him to "the wolf" on his way out. But, the MMA gods had other plans 😤pic.twitter.com/bThhnBRxhn
Predictions
Most Likely Comeback Fight: Conor McGregor trilogy — White House card 2026 has been teased.
Alternative: Max Holloway at welterweight — a fight fans would respect.
Wildcard: Another boxing money fight (Jake Paul 2).
Also Read:
Martin Luther King: The Voice That Changed the World
/content/stories/thumb/thumb68c2995a5886e2.38581486.webp)
/content/stories/thumb/thumb68c27decb5d9c0.92977307.webp)
/content/stories/thumb/thumb68c267fac27e91.73545914.webp)
/content/stories/thumb/thumb68c25fba8e8968.45275208.webp)
/content/stories/thumb/thumb68c255069f27e2.79164426.webp)
