Nick Diaz is set to return to the UFC cage for the first time since losing to Georges St. Pierre in March of 2013. He will face Anderson Silva on January 31st, but that is not what seems to get Diaz going.
When Diaz answers questions he is largely subdued. That is, until you ask a question regarding GSP.
When the former champion is brought up to Diaz he suddenly becomes very interested. He actively discusses his issues with the Canadian mixed martial artist, and it can become comical just how obsessed he is.
At the recent “The Time Is Now” UFC media event, Diaz confirmed that he would be interested in fighting GSP once again:
“If I do well and he comes back in the sport, yeah why not?” Diaz said. “I see myself having a better run, too. Maybe just not being in Canada where you can just be on steroids. Because they didn’t drug test me before that fight. I probably would have tested positive.”
That quote is curious because of what he said regarding drug testing. It is not likely Diaz meant he would have tested positive for steroids, but rather marijuana which he has an open relationship with and has tested positive for in the past.
Regardless, his insinuation of GSP and steroids will make most ears stand on end.
GSP has been out of action since defeating Johny Hendricks by split decision. The champion could likely call his shot for an immediate title fight, but the rematch with Nick Diaz could prove more beneficial to his wallet.
Heat sells. Diaz vs. GSP sells.
Diaz‘s continual vitriol towards GSP generates interest, and that is why his obsession with the former UFC champ makes this a viable fight for the UFC to consider if GSP returns next year. A company that is lacking premier fights may have one fall right into their laps.
When they fought in March of 2013 we saw a motivated GSP in both training and media. Rarely had he gotten that fired up about fighting anyone. A fight against Hendricks or Lawler for the welterweight crown would not generate the same interest from GSP or fans.
The media lead-up to a potential rematch between Diaz and GSP would be stellar. Enough time has passed since GSP‘s dominant victory that it has faded in our memories. If Diaz says he will be more competitive, we will believe it—because we want to believe it.
The outcome against Anderson Silva is irrelevant. Diaz can lose that fight by any means and still talk his way back into our hearts. He is one of the most intriguing characters in the sport. Who else would have had use the term “wolf tickets” so endearingly for months?
Diaz‘s comments about GSP at the recent press event fans flames for a rematch that we would buy.
The potential bout is also serviceable. While GSP could waltz back into a title shot right away, after two years and a major knee injury away from the sport he should have a tune-up fight. Diaz is a great challenge for him in that regard, and it would set the stage for his potential title bid.
The Diaz-GSP rematch would be one of the highest grossing pay-per-views of the last two years if it were to happen, and it makes sense for all parties. As long as Diaz continues to talk, the fight will continue to get more interesting.
The UFC should consider offering the rematch to both men if GSP decides to return to the cage.
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