Nick Diaz showed up to the biggest fight of his life flat and uninspired.
If you do not put welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre on his heels and take him out of his game, you’re gonna have a bad time.
Diaz learned this at UFC 158, and now his future is in limbo.
Immediately after the fight, Diaz hinted at retirement, but just hours later told Ariel Helwani that he wanted a rematch with GSP.
This type of contradictory activity defines Diaz outside the cage, and I believe it will also define his legacy.
For all of Diaz‘s skills—don’t kid yourself, he is one of the most skilled welterweights in the history of the sport—he will always be remembered more for his brash personality, his failed drug tests and his overall confusing demeanor.
A former IFC, Strikeforce and WEC champion, Diaz excelled at the highest level over the course of his 12-year career, but without the UFC strap on his mantel, it is hard to think of him alongside guys like Matt Hughes and GSP.
Because of this, his negative image will override his considerable accomplishments in the long run. It is simply more fun to talk about Diaz‘s crazy side than an IFC championship belt.
Making matters worse, his highest-profile fights were not exactly legendary.
Against Carlos Condit at UFC 143, Diaz was frustrated by Condit‘s constant movement and technical striking, and he could mount little offense during the 25-minute affair.
His UFC 158 tilt against GSP was even worse.
GSP planted Diaz on his back time and time again, refusing to allow Diaz the opportunity to mount any offense.
Again, Diaz‘s post-fight speeches and antics were more memorable than the fight itself, and this represents a fair summary of Diaz‘s career as a whole.
I personally like Diaz as a fighter. The man is incredibly exciting, he’s virtually impossible to finish and he seems to legitimately enjoy the thrill of the scrap.
That said, it is hard to deny that he will eventually be remembered more for his negative image and his abrasive personality.
His resume does not boast a signature, timeless win to speak of, and he was never the champion at the highest level.
Because of this, he will be remembered more for the “puff, puff” than the “punch, punch,” I’m afraid.
It’s a shame, because Diaz is truly a remarkable talent.
For fans of MMA, heavy metal or general absurdity, Follow @HunterAHomistek
Read more MMA news on BleacherReport.com