Few fans would have predicted this unusual combination involving UFC fighter Nate Diaz.
Nate Diaz, one of the most popular fighters in UFC history, does not always share the same admiration from his peers. Throughout his career, the Stockton native has been known for intense rivalries and visible tensions on MMA’s biggest platforms, often erupting during UFC press events. However, in 2021, things shifted. Instead of the typical hostility and backstage chaos, Diaz made a humorous gesture that sparked an unexpected friendship.
In 2021, after a two-year break, Diaz returned to face Leon Edwards at UFC 263. At the event’s press conference, he ended up sitting next to Brandon Moreno, a Mexican fighter preparing to challenge for the flyweight title at UFC 323. Diaz was spotted offering Moreno a joint onstage, leading to a surprising bond between the two. This friendship resulted in Moreno signing on with Diaz’s clothing brand, Repezen Limited.
Moreno shared that he first met Diaz at the pre-fight press conference and later connected backstage. He appreciated Diaz’s gesture of sending clothes through a friend and described the UFC veteran as a genuinely kind person despite his rough reputation. Moreno noted that while he does not smoke marijuana, he respected Diaz’s friendly approach. The connection extended beyond the event, with Moreno attending an afterparty with Diaz’s team and growing admiration for Diaz’s attitude.
While Diaz lost to Edwards in the following days, he showed resilience. Meanwhile, Moreno successfully claimed the flyweight title and is now aiming for his third championship at 125 pounds.
Moreno’s rise also earned him recognition beyond MMA. He gained respect from boxing legend Canelo Alvarez, the first Mexican-born UFC champion. The two met at Eddie Reynoso’s gym in San Diego, where Alvarez taught Moreno boxing techniques. Alvarez revealed he was moved when Moreno, a multi-time world champion, expressed admiration for him in an old TikTok video.
Fan Take: This heartening friendship between Diaz and Moreno highlights the unexpected camaraderie that can blossom in the competitive world of MMA, reminding fans that respect and mutual support can transcend rivalries. For the sport, it means a more connected community and new cross-promotional opportunities that could expand MMA’s reach and appeal.
