Dana White Doesn’t Think a Nick Diaz – Jorge Masvidal Fight is Likely

In recent weeks, Nick Diaz’s team has relayed the Stockton star wants to fight Jorge Masvidal, and the Stockton star has been talking about returning to the Octagon. But, in a recent interview Dana White did, the UFC President reported he doesn’t think Diaz truly, wishes to fight.

White comments on the possibility of Diaz returning

Not long after Nick’s brother, Nate, was defeated by Masvidal at UFC 244 in November, Nick did an interview with ESPN, in which he talked about the possibility of fighting again. Then, his manager announced Diaz is hoping to battle Masvidal in 2020.

Since then, there’s been various reports and or comments from Diaz, regarding plans for him to fight again. But, in a recent interview with ESPN’s Brett Okamoto, White said this (quotes via MMA Mania):

“I haven’t, but I know that our matchmakers have,” said White, when asked if he’s talked to Nick.

“But I have said it before and I will say it again, I don’t think Nick Diaz wants to fight. I don’t think has that love, that passion for fighting. I think it’s sort of a love-hate relationship for him. All the things Nick has is because of fighting, but I don’t think he loves to do it.”

“That’s up to Nick, He knows whether he wants to fight or not. There are guys that I think should be finished and want them to retire, because I don’t want to see them get hurt or maybe I feel they can’t compete at this level anymore.”

“Then there are guys that they know whether they want to compete anymore, they have to make that decision on their own own. This isn’t baseball or basketball or a sport where you can go out and half ass it. You have to be 100-percent in. Especially here. If you come to fight in UFC…

Is White just saying this?

So, chances are some people will argue White is just saying this, as a means to motivate Diaz and prompt his Octagon return. After all, a bout between Diaz and Masvidal would be massive.

While that could be the case, it’s fair to ask whether Diaz is really interested in fighting again and committed to making that happen. Diaz is 36 year’s old now and he hasn’t fought since 2015. It’s also important to note that in Masvidal, he certainly wouldn’t be getting a warm-up fight.

Then again, Diaz has shown throughout his career that he fights on his terms. So, if he really wants to put together a serious, multi-week training camp, then maybe we’ll see him throw hands with Masvidal after all.