After his stunning dismissal of the touted McGregor, Diaz (20-10) likely could have virtually any fight he wants in two weight classes, perhaps including a title shot at either lightweight or welterweight.
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McGregor’s defeat was not the only shock in Las Vegas as Holly Holm lost her bantamweight title to Miesha Tate.
On What’s Next For Conor: “He’s got to go down to 145, first of all”, Florian said of McGregor.
It’s also worth reiterating that at the post-fight press conference on Saturday night McGregor indicated that he’ll defend his featherweight title next, and still intends to compete at UFC 200 in July.
“I feel a bit of adjustment to knowing that the opponent will be able to take more of it”.
“The fight was a fun fight, he stayed in there, we talked, we were verbal”.
Diaz was bleeding heavily from the cut, but it did not seem to slow him down, as he only grew stronger in the second round. “I wanted to take this challenge, and I want the rematch, and I want to get back in there”. The UFC boss said he texted her afterward with the result, and got a very Rousey-like response.
Considering the circumstances of the this fight-short notice, fought at 170 pounds-it will be interesting to see what this means for each fighter moving forward. Lightweight champion dos Anjos also made a disparaging remark about McGregor’s ability. So he picked Nate Diaz, who wasn’t training, for sure.
“It is what it is, I’ll be back”. “I’ve fought him”, he recounted. I will take it on the chin. You want to prove those people wrong?
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Last night was an explosive night in the UFC, as UFC 196 saw some wonderful moments right near the end amid a night of many fights going to decision. “Like I said from the beginning, I have the best training partners in the world in every aspect”, said Diaz after the fight. “That’s not the sign of a champion”. McGregor (19-3, 7-1 UFC) tapped 4:12 into round two, his 15-fight winning streak halted in decisive and dramatic fashion.
