UFC 251: Nate Diaz Proclaims Kamaru Usman vs. Gilbert Burns “Isn’t a Title Fight”

On Tuesday, the UFC rolled out the news that a welterweight title fight between champion Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns, is going to headline its July 11th card on Yas Island.

But, the way Nate Diaz sees it, the welterweight crown really shouldn’t be on the line.

Diaz scoffs at Usman vs. Burns

Burns has been rushing his way up the welterweight ranks in recent months, after going 4-0 since he moved up to lightweight. Most recently, he badly outscored former champ Tyron Woodley for the decision win, and proceeded to call for a title shot.

But, for much of 2020, the expectation has been that Jorge Masvidal would fight Usman next. Dana White said that fight was planned for this summer. But, that was before Masvidal let it be known he’s not happy with the offer the UFC tabled.

Well, fast forward to today, and Burns is booked to fight Usman at UFC 251. Following that news, Diaz tweeted out this.

“This is what’s wrong with people, claiming they’re fighters settling for less cause they know they’re not worth sh*t,” Diaz wrote. “You should’ve fought the next guy in line, not the guy who would take less cause he’s told too (sic). That’s why no one will remember you guys. This isn’t a title fight.”

Does Diaz have a point?

It certainly seems clear that on account of Masvidal’s contractual grievances with the UFC, he’s been passed over for Burns. That shouldn’t come as a surprise, at all, as recently White said Burns likely was next for Usman. 

If you look at the latest UFC rankings, Burns has actually moved into the #1 contender spot. So, from that perspective – if you put a lot of stock in the rankings or the panel that determines them – then Burns deserves to fight for the belt.

Diaz, however, is clearly hitting on the ongoing debate over fighter compensation. Should Usman have joined Masvidal, and refused to fight until they received more money? 

It’s an interesting question. Will more fighters come forward and call on Usman or other champions to do the same? Could we finally see the creation of a long overdue, fighter union or organization?