Nate Diaz Announces UFC Return Plans, Targets Conor McGregor Trilogy
Fan-favorite mixed martial artist Nate Diaz is actively preparing for his highly anticipated return to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). The Stockton native has been absent from the octagon since September 2022, when he concluded his previous UFC contract with a submission victory over Tony Ferguson.
From Boxing Back to MMA: Diaz Names His Preferred Opponents
Following his departure from the UFC, Diaz ventured into professional boxing, facing notable opponents including Jake Paul and Jorge Masvidal. Now, feeling fit and fully prepared for a serious competitive return, Diaz has expressed his desire to face real competition once again. In recent interviews, he has clearly identified his primary target.
"Conor McGregor is first on my list," Diaz stated, reigniting talks of their legendary rivalry. He also mentioned former interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier and bare-knuckle boxing star Mike Perry as other potential opponents, though he criticized Poirier's apparent hesitation to commit to a bout.
The Perfect Stage: A Historic White House Event in 2026
The timing for a Diaz-McGregor trilogy couldn't be more dramatic. The UFC is reportedly planning a landmark event for June 14, 2026, which coincides with the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations. Promotion president Dana White has confirmed the organization is working to secure the White House South Lawn as the venue for this unprecedented card.
Both Diaz and McGregor have publicly expressed interest in participating in this historic event. Their rivalry stands perfectly balanced at one victory each, with their first encounter occurring in 2016. McGregor is expected to regain his eligibility to compete around March 2026, creating an ideal timeline for the trilogy.
Industry Experts Weigh In on the Potential Blockbuster
Former UFC fighter and analyst Brendan Schaub has emphasized the massive commercial potential of this matchup. He believes the UFC would need a fight of this magnitude to attract a record-breaking audience for the White House show.
"Casual viewers will only tune in for recognizable stars," Schaub explained. "The current roster alone might not generate the massive viewership required without a truly nostalgic matchup like Diaz versus McGregor."
Schaub did question Diaz's current competitive level, pointing to moments in his last UFC appearance where he appeared unfocused. However, he acknowledged that the fight's appeal lies more in its historical significance and fan satisfaction than in technical perfection.
Other Potential Opponents and Industry Dynamics
While Diaz has shown clear preference for the McGregor trilogy, other names remain in consideration. Dustin Poirier, who retired after his third fight with Max Holloway last year, has admitted that a bout with Diaz—even in boxing—interests him, though he hasn't fully committed to a return.
Throughout his boxing endeavors, Diaz has consistently hinted at an eventual UFC comeback, maintaining his connection with the MMA community and keeping potential matchups alive in public discourse.
The potential Diaz-McGregor tie-breaker represents more than just another fight; it symbolizes a historic convergence of personal rivalry, promotional spectacle, and national celebration that could redefine combat sports entertainment.
