Nick Diaz has opened as the underdog in his reported matchup against Jorge Masvidal.
Earlier this week it was reported — not confirmed — that UFC fan favorite Nick Diaz would be returning to the Octagon after four-year layoff to face Jorge Masvidal at UFC 235.
Shortly after that report, BetOnline released betting lines for the matchup and listed Diaz as a +135 underdog. Masvidal, the No. 9-ranked welterweight in the world, has opened as a +155 favorite.
Although Diaz may be considered the better fighter in the eyes of many combat sports fans, the Californian hasn’t fought since his controversial No Contest against Anderson Silva in 2015.
Silva, who originally earned a unanimous decision win, tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs and the bout was overturned to a No Contest. Diaz tested positive for marijuana metabolites and was suspended for 18 months.
Despite his elite-level boxing, cardio and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Diaz hasn’t officially won a fight since 2011, so it should come as no surprise to see the Stockton local listed as the betting underdog against ‘Gamebred.’
Masvidal has been the much more active fighter and holds wins over the likes of Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone and Jake Ellenberger. Masvidal is also a tough stylistic matchup for Diaz, as the former street fighter is one of the most technical boxers in the division and has solid defense and footwork.
UFC 235 is scheduled to take place on March 2, 2019 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.