Jon Jones has expressed doubts about Nate Diaz’s tough-guy image, despite Diaz often portraying a gangster persona to his fans online. Throughout his UFC career, Diaz adopted this gangster-like persona, gaining immense popularity with fans due to both his style and memorable fights against fighters like Conor McGregor and Donald Cerrone. However, Jones, widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters, questions this image and offers his perspective on Diaz.
Earlier this year, Jones and Diaz were set to coach opposing teams on the Russian edition of “The Ultimate Fighter” called Alf Reality, but the show quickly took a turn when Diaz was attacked by a contestant, leading to his departure amid a feud with a Dagestani fighter in Thailand. Jones, who spent time with Diaz in Thailand, concluded that Diaz isn’t truly a gangster. Instead, he describes Diaz as a professional athlete, father, coach, entrepreneur, and someone who leads and employs many people. Despite Diaz’s rebellious behavior, Jones insists he’s a good person, and the show’s loss of Diaz was unfortunate.
Diaz last fought in UFC in 2022, achieving a notable victory over Tony Ferguson. Since then, he has hinted at a potential UFC comeback, mingling among boxing matches with Jake Paul and Jorge Masvidal. Recently, Diaz revealed he aims to return to the UFC to possibly face British contender Paddy Pimblett. While he keeps a positive relationship with the UFC, it’s still uncertain if or when he’ll officially make a comeback.
Fan Take: This insight from Jon Jones challenges the mystique around Nate Diaz, offering a more nuanced view of his character beyond his public persona. Diaz’s potential UFC return against rising stars like Pimblett could inject fresh excitement and storylines into the sport, capturing fan interest worldwide.
