NATE DIAZ claims he did not intend to fight Khamzat Chimaev, but only to fulfill his UFC contract.
In the main event at UFC 279., the Ultimate Fighter Season Five winner will face the undefeated Russian-born Swede.
Khamzat Chimaev and Nate Diaz will be fighting at UFC 279 Sunday morning
Diaz initially opposed the idea of fighting undefeated Russians
The final fight under his UFC contract is the fan favorite's battle with Chimaev
Fan favourite Diaz declined a "disrespectful offer" to fight Chimaev in the first fight last year, but made a U-turn and won the fight with the MMA champion.
He said this about the UFC brass in an interview with ESPN: "They act like I called them for this fight, which they didn't call and don't desire and still don't desire."
"But I don’t give a damn, I’ll fight anyone.
"But, [the] pressure on him is on, he better finish with me, because he’s the next killer in town."
Many people in mixed martial arts believe that the UFC is trying to increase Chimaev’s star power by putting him up against Diaz, a belief Stockton's slugger supports.
Diaz stated that this fight is not about Diaz... It's about "making" this man.
"And I'm like: 'OK, you guys won't let me go? Because I'm the best fighter?
"And you won't let me go unless it is off of somebody?"
CASINO SPECIAL - BEST CUSTOMER SIGN UP DEALSDiaz accepted the role of baton passer, even though he was not happy for Chimaev's name to be made of him.
He stated, "I have to make someone for you?"
"Well, alright, you're welcome. Let's get started.
His 15-year tenure as the premier promotion in mixed martial art will end with his clash against Chimaev.
Diaz is open to exploring new deals with the promotion, but has not closed the door on the possibility of signing one.
Victory over Daz would increase Chimaev’s record to an impeccable 12-0 and could put him on the verge of a welterweight title shot.
Did you miss our previous article...
https://secondsaway.co.uk/mixed-martial-arts/stupid-ty-tattoo-exufc-stunner-pearl-gonzalez-spends-ps9k-on-boob-inking
