Since his loss, positive test for marijuana and subsequent
suspension by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, Nick Diaz has been anomaly
in the world of mixed martial arts. He missed a Brazilian jiu-jitsu super-match
against Braulio Estima in Long Beach
and has had his passion for competing called into question on countless
occasions.
Today, via graciefighter.com, Diaz released a statement thru
Cesar Gracie. In the statement, Gracie spoke about his admiration of Nick and
his younger brother Nate. He talked about Nate’s rise in the UFC’s lightweight
division and how much time Nick has been spending around the gym. Gracie said
that “training and fighting is in his DNA.”
Gracie went on to reveal Nick’s future plans.
“This week we had a great talk and he made it clear to me
that he is ready to get back to the cage. Nick Diaz will return.”
For months, Nick’s future was in question. After his February
4 loss at UFC 143 to Carlos Condit, Nick announced he was retiring and leaving
MMA for good. For fans to read that “Nick Diaz will return”, was a long-awaited
sign of relief.
However, that wasn’t the biggest news in the statement.
“As far as future opponents, Nick has stated that he would
like to take fights ‘that matter’.” Gracie would go on to say, “He will
respectfully ask for a fight with Anderson Silva.”
Silva’s agents have spoken about a fight with UFC
Welterweight Champion Georges St. Pierre at catch weight. However, Diaz and
Gracie state that if Silva chose not to drop down in weight then Nick will move
up to 185lbs to challenge the middleweight champion.
At the end of the statement Gracie even seems to send a plea
out to fans. He says that he will be meeting with UFC President Dana White on
August 6th and that if fans appreciate Nick’s fighting style to let
Dana know that they want Nick back ASAP.
Before Nick makes his return he must prove to White, ZUFFA
and to fans that he has truly turned a corner and that he deserves the
privilege to be in the UFC again.
For the full letter check out GracieFighter.com.
Follow me on Twitter @NiteshDutt.
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