The first Saturday in May is Cinco de Mayo, it will also be the night of the third UFC event held live on FOX. So far, there’s only been one match announced for that night and it is a battle of hard-hitting lightweights in Nate Diaz (15-7-0) and Jim Miller (21-3-0).
Both fighters are looking to build on impressive victories. Diaz will try to make it three in a row after wins over Donald Cerrone and Takanori Gomi. Diaz’s unanimous decision victory over Cerrone at UFC 141 showed how skilled the younger Diaz truly is, but it was his submission victory over Takanori Gomi at UFC 135 that showed how dangerous of a fighter he has become at lightweight.
Training under the watchful eye of the Team Gracie coaches and following the footsteps of big brother Nick has helped Nate grow into a well-rounded fighter. His stand-up has become a great weapon and his BJJ skill is becoming quite a strength. If there were one flaw on Diaz’s repertoire, it would be his wrestling defense. Diaz has not yet faced a strong wrestler; he might face such a fighter in Miller.
Miller is coming off an impressive first-round submission victory over Melvin Guillard at UFC on FX 1. In just one round, Miller showed his heart, ability to overcome adversity and submission ability. Early in the round it looked as if Guillard would score a quick TKO victory after landing a hard right to Miller, but he did not capitalize. That left the door open for Miller who fought back and ended up sinking in a rear naked choke for the victory.
These two fighters share some similar skills, but are very different as well. No word yet on if bout will be for next shot at lightweight title, but all signs point to that being the case.
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