Nate Diaz has responded to Jake Paul’s $10 million offer for an MMA fight, stipulating that it can only occur under the same arrangement as their upcoming 10-round boxing match, ruling out a fight in the Professional Fighters League, which is Paul’s MMA home.
Mixed martial arts fighter Nate Diaz has made it clear that he wouldn’t just fight Jake Paul, an MMA competitor, in any location. Diaz responded to Paul’s recent $10 million offer for an MMA fight on Wednesday. He specified a few requirements for the fight to take place on Saturday, after they have prepared for a boxing match consisting of 10 rounds.
Diaz’s plan after the fight with Paul is likely a return to the UFC, assuming their fight in the ring concludes. He stated that if an MMA rematch was to happen, it would have to either take place in the octagon or under an arrangement similar to the upcoming boxing match. He specifically asserted that a fight against Paul in Paul’s MMA home, the PFL, was not an option. When asked about Paul’s proposal on The MMA Hour, Diaz responded, “I don’t fight for that organization. If we do something, we’re going to do something real. Co-promotion, if anything.”
The proceeds from Saturday’s fight would be split equally between Diaz’s Real Fight Inc. and Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. This partnership has also resulted in collaboration with pay-per-view providers, roping in both DAZN and ESPN+ for the broadcast. Despite this, Diaz stated he hasn’t considered plans beyond Saturday’s fight with Paul, which is an important assessment of his attraction and competitiveness after departing the UFC as a free agent. One of the potential high-profile fights for Diaz in the future could be an anticipated third battle with UFC star Conor McGregor.
Unlike other free agents, Diaz did not seem to have any conflicts with the UFC when he didn’t renew his contract. He expressed gratitude to the promotion, following a public disagreement, and the possibility of a return. Regarding his future, Diaz said he would either go back to the UFC or engage in a similar MMA-style fight. He also stated he might switch to boxing. Their contest on Saturday, a 185-pound match, will have a significant impact on both Diaz and Paul’s career path. It is worth noting that an MMA encounter is still an option.