As we approach the day, the stage is set for an epic clash between the enigmatic Nate Diaz and the ever-talkative Jake Paul. It has been months since we last saw Diaz step into action, leaving fans hungry for his return. His last fight against Tony Ferguson at UFC 279 was not his best show of skills, but fans did see a bit of Diaz magic.

The Stockton native is currently training for his boxing debut. However, recent controversial statements from one of Diaz’s sparring partners have stirred up concern among fans.

Sparring partner talks about his experience with Nate Diaz

Esquiva Falcao, the boxer who had the privilege of sparring with Diaz, took to Instagram to share his experience. Just as he finished training with Diaz, Falcao started recording himself while speaking in his native language. The undefeated boxer criticized Nate Diaz’s skills, questioning the former UFC fighter’s cardio.

“At first I thought he was tired and in the end, it looked like he was dying. His fighting style is crazy. You look at him and say ‘Oh he’s tired’ and then we start the sparring. Coach told me in the second round, ‘he’s tired already, hold back a little bit and keep the rhythm’.”

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Moreover, Falcao even went as far as commenting on Diaz’s weight. He claimed Diaz was “too heavy” and likely tipping the scales at over 220 pounds. “He is bad, he is bad. He’s too heavy, he’s overweight. Probably 220 or more.”

John McCarthy reacts to this statement

Ex-UFC referee John McCarthy addressed the matter on his Weighing In podcast with former UFC fighter Josh Thomson.

Firstly, he dismissed the notion that Diaz weighed as much as Falcao suggested. But at the same time, McCarthy acknowledged that Paul could potentially defeat Diaz, but not without difficulty. “But seriously, Nate’s not 220 pounds. Ain’t no freaking way. Nate’s been boxing with a lot of guys and again I think Jake Paul could definitely beat him. He can knock him out but it ain’t gonna be easy.”

He also noted Diaz’s uncanny ability to recover quickly, thanks to the 10-second rule in boxing. This unique rule, absent in MMA, provides Diaz with an advantage as he gets a brief respite to gather himself after being rocked. Moreover, the 10-round fight format plays to Diaz’s favor, as his endurance and relentless volume of strikes could disrupt Paul’s rhythm and game plan.

McCarthy stated, “If this thing starts to get into the later rounds… It’s at a 10-round fight, that works towards Nate’s advantage. The 10 rounds and the ability to take shots and just keep coming forward and deliver volume.”

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Do you agree with John McCarthy’s analysis? Do let us know in the comments below.