In the volatile world of combat sports, some rivalries simply refuse to fade. The long-simmering tension between former UFC interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier and Stockton`s own Nate Diaz has once again boiled over, with Diaz unequivocally shutting down Poirier`s recent proposal for a retirement-ending boxing match.
A Retirement Tease and a Direct Challenge
Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier, fresh off what many believed to be his final appearance in the UFC Octagon at UFC 318, had recently stirred the pot of speculation. After a career defined by thrilling performances and relentless aggression, Poirier hinted that there was only one scenario capable of luring him out of his hard-earned retirement: a 12-round boxing bout against Nate Diaz.
The suggestion, made public through Poirier`s social media channels, wasn`t a casual mention. It was a clear, direct challenge, reigniting the flame of a matchup that has tantalized fans for years, only to repeatedly fall apart at the eleventh hour.
Diaz`s Characteristic Dismissal
However, if Poirier anticipated a warm reception or a readily accepted challenge, he clearly underestimated the unique calculus of Nate Diaz. Known for his blunt honesty, an unyielding persona, and a singular perspective on the fight game, Diaz wasted little time in delivering a terse, yet entirely characteristic, dismissal via social media.
“I`d beat your a— but you`re not allowed. PS you`re checked out already.”
This statement, delivered with Diaz`s signature blend of defiance and pragmatic assessment, effectively slammed the door shut on Poirier`s comeback aspirations, at least where Diaz is concerned. It`s a response that carries both the weight of their unresolved history and Diaz`s current trajectory in the boxing world outside the UFC banner.
The Roots of a Lingering Grievance
The proposed Poirier-Diaz clash is not a new concept; it`s a ghost from fights past that continues to haunt both men`s careers. The pair were originally slated to face off in a highly anticipated co-main event at UFC 230 in Madison Square Garden. Yet, like many marquee matchups in the sport, it dissolved, leaving behind a trail of accusations and unaddressed animosity concerning the reasons for its cancellation.
Poirier, ever the professional, has often cited the un-fought Diaz bout as one of his few career regrets, claiming he was prepared to fight through injury if the opponent was Diaz. This enduring sentiment underscores the personal stake he clearly holds in finally settling this score, whether in an Octagon or a boxing ring, highlighting the deep-seated desire for closure.
Beyond the Octagon: Different Paths, Same Antagonism
Since parting ways with the UFC in 2022, Nate Diaz has embraced a career in professional boxing, seeking to prove his prowess with his fists alone. His desire to remain active and selective in this new arena is clear. Yet, his retort to Poirier suggests a belief that “The Diamond,” having declared retirement, is no longer in the appropriate mental or physical state for such a high-stakes encounter – a classic Diaz psychological jab.
The irony here is palpable: a fighter announces his retirement, then offers to return for one specific opponent, only to be told by that very opponent that he`s effectively “not allowed” because he`s “checked out.” It`s a prime example of combat sports theatre, where the narratives extend far beyond the opening bell, often playing out just as vividly on social media.
What Next for the Diamond and the Stockton Slugger?
With Diaz`s swift veto, the dream of a Poirier vs. Diaz boxing match appears, at least for now, to be firmly back on the shelf. Poirier, having put his gloves down, must now contend with Diaz`s assertion that he`s already “checked out” – a claim that could either cement his retirement or, perhaps, provide a fresh spark for a different challenge or renewed motivation.
For Nate Diaz, the path forward remains one of independent ventures in boxing. His consistent unwillingness to play by conventional rules, or even to accept challenges from willing opponents on his own terms, simply adds another intriguing layer to his enigmatic legacy. The question isn`t if these two will ever fight, but rather, when—if ever—will the stars, and Nate Diaz`s mood, finally align?
Marcus Bellamy 
Connor Westbrook