The highly anticipated boxing match between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal at the Honda Center in Anaheim did not disappoint fans, with Diaz emerging victorious in a majority decision. The judges' scorecards reflected a close contest, with scores of 97-93, 98-92, and 95-95 in favor of Diaz.
Both fighters, aged 39, displayed remarkable endurance throughout the fight, collectively throwing over 1,400 punches. While Masvidal's punches were noted for their power and impact, Diaz's relentless work rate and volume of punches seemed to sway the judges in his favor.
Diaz's ability to absorb powerful shots and maintain his forward momentum impressed spectators. Despite facing formidable opposition, he continued to press forward and engage throughout the fight.
Following his victory, Diaz expressed satisfaction with his performance, referring to it as a 'mission accomplished.' The fight marked the first-ever BMF title bout in the UFC, adding to its significance.
Post-fight, Diaz expressed interest in a potential rematch with Jake Paul, whom he faced in a boxing match in August 2023. Despite receiving a lucrative offer from Paul for a rematch in the PFL's SmartCage, Diaz declined, citing potential business conflicts with the UFC.
The event at the Honda Center drew an impressive crowd of 18,040 spectators, underscoring Diaz's marketability and popularity among fans. Diaz also issued a challenge to current UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards, indicating his continued ambition to vie for a UFC title.
While Diaz faced a defeat against Edwards in 2021, his resilience and performance in that fight suggest he may still have a chance at the championship. His status as a fan favorite and a proven draw for the UFC could pave the way for new opportunities in his career.
Overall, the Diaz-Masvidal fight was a commercial success, drawing a lively and engaged audience at the Honda Center. Diaz's future in the UFC remains intriguing, with potential matchups and challenges on the horizon.
