Georges St-Pierre comments on Nick Diaz's return at UFC 266: 'He looked rusty'

G. St-Pierre criticized N. Diaz's performance in UFC 266. Photo: SUPER FIGHTS montage

Even though he was knocked out in the fight against Robbie Lawler, the performance of Nick Diaz remains prominent among the combat sports community. Keeping an eye on UFC 266, 'Hall of Fame' member and former welterweight (up to 77kg) and middleweight (up to 83,9kg) champion Georges St-Pierre believes the 'bad boy' was rusty due to his period of inactivity.

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“It was a difficult night as he came back after six or seven years away. It was a long time and no one can come back as good as before. I have the impression that Nick (Diaz) left a lot of money (to the UFC), but perhaps his best years are behind him. He was rusty,” said St-Pierre in an interview with 'Yahoo! Sports'.

Without acting since 2015, Nick Diaz returned to the octagon to face Robbie Lawler in a rematch after 17 years. However, he ended up being knocked out in the third round and, surprisingly, his performance was highlighted by the president of Ultimate, Dana White.

The story between GSP and Diaz is already old, as the two athletes faced each other for the welterweight title (up to 77kg) in 2013. On that occasion, the Canadian did not disappoint his hometown and, in Montreal, won the decision unanimous decision from the judges to continue with his belt.