Why Did Nick Diaz Leave UFC?

Published 09/10/2021, 5:17 AM EDT

Nick Diaz, one of the most prominent names in the UFC, has an amazing professional fighting record. He put up incredible performances during his time in the UFC. However, the Stockton native hasn’t entered the octagon since his last fight against Anderson Silva at UFC 183.

Although he lost the fight via a unanimous decision, the bout was ruled a no-contest after both the fighters tested positive for banned substances. As it was Diaz’s third positive test, the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) handed him a five-year ban. Furthermore, they fined him a hefty amount of $165000.

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Subsequently, Nick Diaz filed an appeal against the (NSAC) and successfully got his five years ban reduced to 18 months. Later in 2016, the ban was lifted entirely. However, as Diaz failed to pay the fine, the (NSAC) considered him ineligible to fight. Hence, he moved away from active competition and seemingly left, or rather, took a hiatus from the UFC.

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All of that will change as the 38-year-old will return at UFC 266 against a familiar foe.

Nick Diaz: The Most Awaited Comeback of UFC

Nick Diaz, who fought his last bout against Anderson Silva at UFC 183 in January 2015, will return to the octagon against Robbie Lawler in a five-round non-title scrap on 25 September. The match will serve as the third last fight of the night, behind Alexander Volkanovski vs Brian Ortega and Valentina Shevchenko vs Lauren Murphy.

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Lawler and Diaz fought against each other inside the octagon in the past. At UFC 47 in 2004, Diaz knocked out ‘Ruthless’ Lawler in the second round of the fight. This match garnered a lot of attention from the combat fans.

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Hence, the (26-9) fighter might have opted to face Robbie Lawler for his comeback fight. This rematch, which is 17 years in the making, will surely create a lot of buzz among the combat fans, which will also benefit the promotion.

What are your thoughts on the fight? Let us know in the comment section below.

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Written by:

Afnan Chougle is a UFC author at EssentiallySports. Besides writing, this Media graduate is an integral part of the digital web stories team for combat sports. Before joining EssentiallySports, Afnan gained valuable experience as an intern at Jiostudios Production House.

Why Did Nick Diaz Leave UFC?

Nick Diaz: The Most Awaited Comeback of UFC

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