Nick Diaz’s next fight may not be in the UFC, could box instead

Cesar Gracie gives an update on Nick Diaz’s next possible career move.

Much has been said about Nick Diaz’s UFC return after six years on the sidelines. Talks first surfaced in late 2020 and carried on in the succeeding months. Nothing was ever finalized.

Dana White, who was initially dismissive about Nick’s return plans, eventually became more optimistic about it. Just a few weeks ago, the UFC president revealed some “promising” progress in the negotiations as he expects the elder Diaz to be back in the Octagon in 2021.

But the recent updates from the Diaz camp seem to say otherwise. Cesar Gracie, a long-time mentor to both Nick and Nate, sent this text message to MMA Fighting.

“We were looking at September. I have to see where he is in his contract. It is possible that his next fight will not be in the UFC.”

So if Diaz won’t be fighting in the UFC, what else could be in store for him in terms of his fighting career? Cesar Gracie also has an answer to that.

“Nick is very open to take a fight in MMA or boxing.”

The 37-year-old Diaz (26-9, 2 NC) last saw action at UFC 183 against Anderson Silva, a fight that was ruled a No Contest due to drug test failures on both men. He’s so far had quite a colorful time while on hiatus and even got himself a new gig.