7 Years After UFC 202, Conor McGregor Dubs Nate Diaz a “Real Warrior” as Ex-Rival Gears Up for Jake Paul Fight

There are only a handful of fighters who have a persona like Conor McGregor. Aside from being one of the most popular fighters in the entire promotion, McGregor is a real threat to any and all fighters in the Lightweight division. His rivalry with Nate Diaz has been etched in the UFC history books as one of the greatest ever.

Currently, the whole world is talking about Nate Diaz taking on Jake Paul in a boxing match. Ariel Helwani from Matchroom Boxing had to get McGregor’s opinion on his former division rival and his upcoming match-up. What he said might come as a shocker to most people.

A sit down with Conor McGregor & Ariel Helwani

McGregor has always been, in a more positive sense of the word, brazen. He knows what happens in the ring, stays in the ring. When asked about Nate Diaz and their newly discovered sense of camaraderie, the former UFC champion said, “You know it’s competitive, but it’s always been respect.“. “How could you not respect the Diaz brothers and their resume in the fight camp.” he added. 

A rivalry like theirs, you would assume, would continue for ages. However, both Diaz and McGregor were able to set that aside and come out in support of each other. Talking about Nate Diaz, he continues, “Real Fighters.. Thats his promotion Real Fighters Inc. or something like that. You know, great fighter. I’ve spent 40 minutes in the cage with the lad. It’s always going to be respect off of that.“

Looking back on a fight against Nate Diaz, Conor couldn’t help but appreciate Diaz’s tremendous courage and will power. “Gave me the rematch in an instant – that’s commendable, that’s real warrior stuff.” said the Irishman, recalling an incident where Diaz gave Conor a rematch shot after defeating the Irish.

Diaz vs. Paul – A fan favourite fight, coming soon

Fans of combat sports couldn’t be more thrilled as YouTuber-turned-Boxer Jake Paul goes toe-to-toe with former UFC fighter Nate Diaz. This isn’t the first time UFC fighters have squared up against boxers. Nate Diaz’s ex-rival and former UFC Champion Conor McGregor had gotten in the ring with the legendary boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. He lost the bout but did win a round. Needless to say, McGregor has showed his support for his former rival saying “Nate Diaz slaps the head off [Jake Paul] and I look forward to seeing it.“.

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The match could swing both ways, and any sort of prediction looks difficult. However, the opinion of a decorated fighter like McGregor has to carry some weight. The match is scheduled for August 5, 2023, and it is destined to be a nail-biter.

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