Many MMA fans have been asking what is next for Nate Diaz ever since his loss to Conor McGregor. The younger Diaz brother has yet to step foot inside the Octagon since suffering a defeat in that rematch in August 2016.
But the rumor mill has been churning recently and it seems as though we could be seeing Diaz fight again very soon. The popular MMA news report floating around the internet is that Diaz is going to challenge welterweight champion Tyron Woodley for the gold at UFC 219.
In preparation for this potential bout, online book Sportsbook has released lines. Woodley finds himself Sportsbook as a heavy -260 favorite with Diaz coming back at +200.
It makes a lot of sense. Diaz has found the most success in his MMA career at lightweight despite several forays into the 170-pound division. Diaz would be greatly undersized while also giving up a massive power advantage to Woodley.
That being said, Diaz is about as tough as they come. He will constantly push the pace no matter how beat up or bloody he is. His cardio is impeccable and his ability to wear down opponents is among the best around.
Dealing with Woodley’s explosiveness in both his striking and wrestling game would be a monumental task for Diaz – as it is for many who routinely fight at welterweight.
Woodley has been regarded as a boring champion, with good reason. His most recent bout vs Demian Maia could put an insomniac to sleep. Maybe Woodley needs a fighter like Diaz. The type of guy that will walk through the fire and just keep coming. Maybe Diaz can draw the best out of Woodley.
Let’s also not forget that the McGregor vs Diaz trilogy bout is looming large. If Diaz can pull off the upset and defeat Woodley, that sets up another bout with McGregor in which “The Notorious One” can aim to become the only three-division champ in UFC history.
- Tyron Woodley -260
- Nate Diaz +200
