When Nick Diaz was pulled from his fight with Georges St-Pierre at UFC 137 after missing two straight press conferences, it looked like the former Strikeforce champ was going to be let go from the UFC.
Instead, the UFC decided to switch Diaz with Carlos Condit in his fight against B.J. Penn.
In another strange turn of events, St-Pierre had to pull out of the main event with a knee injury.
Now Diaz finds himself in the main event again against Penn.
There’s no denying Diaz’s talent. He’s one of the best boxers in MMA, a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has one of the best chins in the game today.
For all of his talent though, Diaz often makes news for the negative baggage he brings with him. Diaz often plays the thug role when it comes to his fights.
He’s often taunted his opponents during fights, had one win overturned because he tested positive for marijuana, and got into a fight with Joe Riggs in a hospital.
Diaz has never been a fan of the media either. Despite this, it was completely unprofessional for Diaz to miss two straight “beauty pageants” that were required.
To make matters worse, Diaz nearly missed a third one, showing up a couple of hours late.
Somehow Diaz still has a job with the UFC.
One reason could be because his boss is one of the most forgiving people on Earth.
Dana White may not be the most likable guy in MMA, but the UFC president has given more second chances to fighters than any other MMA organization boss in the history of the sport.
Diaz also has the potential to be one of the great characters in the sport. Although, he can make you hate him for the things he says outside of the cage—inside, he usually backs them up.
He’s also a guy who plays the role of troubled fighter who may get some sympathy from people for being misunderstood.
No matter the case, Diaz should count his blessings and try to stay on the straight path.
Although he’s looked into other ventures such as boxing, MMA has provided him with many chances to be a star.
If Diaz loses to Penn at UFC 137, his luck could possibly run out.
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