Controversial mixed martial arts star gets back to work, ahead of a much-anticipated bout.
Former welterweight contender Nick Diaz has ended his retirement from the sport of mixed martial arts after signing a new three-fight deal with the UFC.
Diaz has not been seen in action since his loss to then champion Georges St-Pierre for the welterweight championship in the main event of UFC 158.
However, Diaz said he has stayed in shape away from fight camps and said he could return sooner than the early-2015 time frame which was given at the time of his signing by UFC president Dana White.
He’s back @nickdiaz209 just signed a new bout agreement 2 fight! Details coming soon http://t.co/coguxLGhUI pic.twitter.com/BGlZriJjMW
— Dana White (@danawhite) July 24, 2014
“I’ve been doing a whole lot of not getting punched around-type stuff,” Diaz said.
“I’ve been staying in shape pretty good, doing a lot of running. It’s been a good experience having this much time off.”
“Next year I guess, whatever though.
“I can fight tomorrow, tonight. You have to do what you have to do. … [I came today] to sort things out with Dana White and Lorenzo [Fertitta]. “It was hard times for a little bit, but people act like I’ve been doing nothing.
“I’ve been getting some things done. Just because I’m not getting punched around every day doesn’t mean I’m not focused on what I’m doing. Now, here we are.”
Diaz (26-9 MMA, 7-6 UFC) has been mooted to return against another legend of the sport in the form of Anderson Silva, in what would be a can’t miss hit in terms of box-office and attendance no mater which card it is placed on.
However, White said there had been no further talks regarding a fight between Diaz and Silva despite both camps reportedly expressing an interest.
There is no update on Anderson vs Diaz. Anderson can’t fight till Feb. Lorenzo and I have not even talked to Anderson.
— Dana White (@danawhite) July 24, 2014
COMMENTS