Nate Diaz explains his decision to face Leon Edwards and reveals extra motivation for performing at UFC 263

N. Diaz has not fought professionally since November 2019. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram

Like it or not, Nate diaz is back in MMA. After more than a year and a half away from the octagon, the 'bad boy' returns to the sport and exchanges forces against Leon edwards No. UFC 263, this Saturday (12), in Glendale (USA). Ready to get back on track to winning ways, the welterweight (under 77kg) explained why he agreed to face the Englishman and admitted an extra ingredient for his commitment over the weekend.

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“I was hoping the whole world would come back faster. Actually, I wasn't expecting it. I wanted to be on the best card, where everything would happen again, with an audience present,” said Diaz, in an interview with 'ESPN'.

After being speculated, a few months ago, for a rematch against Jorge masvidal, Nate ended up being selected to face one of the welterweight standouts. Edwards' rival over the weekend, the fighter explained why he accepted the challenge.

“He is someone who has been winning, doing a good job. He has a small record and his career is going well. So let’s accept it,” he stated.

If he overcomes Leon, Diaz, who is not even in the ranking led by Kamaru Usman, will arrive with everything in the division, being able to take the third position, currently held by the Englishman. The opportunity to reach the top 5, however, is not 'bad boy'. For the athlete, fans can expect a great performance in one of the most anticipated shows of the Ultimate season.

“I want to put on a good show and do my job. I hope everyone leaves with their heads and shoulders, but I'm going to kill for sure”, he concluded.

One of the big names in UFC 263, Diaz had his last fight in November 2019. At the time, the American ended up defeated by Jorge masvidal in the dispute for the symbolic title of the BMF (most tough in MMA).