UFC President Dana White has publicly addressed the recent high-profile signing of former UFC superstar Nate Diaz with Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), the combat sports organization co-founded by Jake Paul. White explicitly stated there’s “no beef” between him and Diaz, maintaining a respectful and even nostalgic tone regarding the Stockton native’s career trajectory post-UFC.
Diaz, a perennial fan favorite revered for his thrilling fights, unique personality, and unwavering independent spirit, recently announced his multi-fight deal with MVP. This move signals a significant new chapter outside the octagon where he built his legendary status and earned immense popularity. The announcement naturally generated considerable buzz within the combat sports world, prompting questions about the current relationship between Diaz and his long-time former promoter.
During a recent media interaction, White was asked directly about Diaz’s new venture and his thoughts on the partnership with MVP. His response was candid and reflective, emphasizing their long history together. “Nate’s a free agent,” White explained to reporters. “He can do whatever he wants to do. We had a good run with Nate, we had a good time. There’s no beef there at all with Nate.”
White’s comments resonate with a common understanding in the often-cutthroat fight business: while promotions vigorously compete for talent and market share, individual relationships and mutual respect between figures can often transcend corporate rivalries. Diaz’s departure from the UFC was widely anticipated after he fulfilled the final fight on his contract, and his decision to join MVP aligns perfectly with his expressed desire to explore new opportunities in combat sports, particularly in boxing, a discipline he has often flirted with.
This public statement from White serves to effectively diffuse any potential narrative of a contentious or bitter split between the UFC and one of its most iconic fighters. Instead, it portrays a professional parting with a clear sense of mutual respect, even as Diaz now aligns himself with a company frequently perceived as a direct competitor in the ever-evolving landscape of combat sports entertainment.