Jorge Masvidal on Why He’d Fight Nate Diaz “in a Heartbeat”

Following Jorge Masvidal’s jaw-dropping wins over Darren Till and Ben Askren, “Gamebred” has been driving for a shot at the UFC’s welterweight crown or a scrap with Conor McGregor. But, if the UFC does call him about fighting Nate Diaz, Masvidal’s more than down.

Masvidal’s next bout

It’s no secret that Masvidal’s stock right now is at an all-time high, as a result of what he’s accomplished in 2019. Back in March, the rugged welterweight KO’d Darren Till at UFC London, and at UFC 239 last month, he made history by bombing out Ben Askren in just five seconds. Leading up to UFC 239, there was talk that the winner of Askren – Masdvidal could get a title shot, and the latter and his camp have been calling for just that. But, if that can’t happen (Dana White has said Colby Covington is next), Masvidal’s also said he’d love to battle the aforementioned McGregor.

Diaz – Masvidal?

Well, as you surely know, Diaz is scheduled to fight Anthony Pettis tonight at UFC 241. Recently Masvidal was asked by the Mac Life about whether he’d sign on to fight the Stockton star, and “Gamebred” said this (quotes via MMA Junkie):

“In a heartbeat, we’re signing,” Masvidal said. “I’ve been chasing the belt for 16 years, but that’s such a fight for me, for the fans, for the sport, and it’s two Latin dogs just going at it. We haven’t seen that in the sport too much. We need to see it. You’re just going to lock up two dogs in the cage and let them go. Let’s find out what happens. That’s a fight I would love. If that fight gets offered, we’re taking it.”

“I’ve got 16 years working with one goal in mind, and that’s to get the belt, and if I’m not fighting for that belt and I’m so close to it and it was promised to me after the Ben Askren fight, it has to be something of significant force – and they’ve gotta pay me, man. That’s about it.”

Yup. It’s not surprising to hear this. Diaz – Masvidal would be on almost everyone’s must-see lists, due to the personalities, fighting styles and abilities of both men. Especially if Diaz beats Pettis tonight. But could it happen in the short term future?

That’s a good question. Diaz has also made it clear he’s looking for exciting, big name fights at this juncture. But, a third bout with McGregor would be much bigger than a showdown with Masvidal. Of course, it’s really not clear what’s going to be next for McGregor. Perhaps more so now, due to the release of this video that recently made headlines.