Nick Diaz wants former champion for planned UFC comeback: “Back on top in 2023”

UFC veteran Nick Diaz wants to be back in action next year. Photo via Instagram: (@nickdiaz209)

UFC veteran, and former Strikeforce Welterweight champion, Nick Diaz is planning a return to fighting in 2023.

At a fan meet-and-greet in Las Vegas last weekend, the 39-year-old fighter said that he will be back in the Octagon next year, where he hopes to face none other than former middleweight champion Israel Adesanya, who was dethroned at UFC 281 in November.

“You can see me back on top in 2023, I’m making a comeback,” Diaz reportedly said. “I’m going to be quicker than ever, stronger than ever, better than ever — I’m just gonna be a whole new me. Whoever is on top at the time, preferably Israel Adesanya, if he gets his title back.”

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Nick Diaz fought once in six years

Nick Diaz last appearance in the UFC was a TKO loss to Robbie Lawler in his long-awaited return last year.

The fight lived up to its expectations and turned out to be a real banger, where both fighters traded heavy shots until Lawler finished his opponent in the third round.

Punches in bunches landing in the pocket! 🥊

Diaz & Lawler both having success early 17 years later! #UFC266 pic.twitter.com/g4eoKnAiIK

— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) September 26, 2021

Before the loss at UFC 266, Diaz hadn’t fought since UFC 183 in January 2015, when he faced Anderson Silva in a fight that was declared a no-contest, after Silva tested positive for drostanolone and androsterone.

Diaz also tested positive for marijuana.

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