One of the more recent ongoings within the MMA world lately is the drama surrounding Nick Diaz. Nick has been building up an impressive win list in the Welterweight Division within Strikeforce organization (and Elite XC, DREAM, Pride FC) using a well-rounded skill set that many have seen as the answer to defeating GSP. Unfortunately, usually where Nick goes, drama follows.
For those of you who don’t know really know Nick Diaz, he was once of the more exciting fighters in the UFC – a couple of losses, and a fight in the hospital with Joe Riggs, and Nick found himself unemployed. Since that time he has been nearly flawless.
The UFC’s acquisition of Strikeforce heralded an interesting time for those fans of the WW division, as the prospect of a fight between Diaz and GSP seemed inevitable. Recently, Dana White answered our prayers. Dana announced that the fight between GSP and Diaz would take place this October at UFC 137.
Unfortunately, the drama has recently continued. Nick decided that he would go MIA in the build-up to the fight in October, so an infuriated Dana White kicked Diaz off the main event and put Carlos Condit in his place – which in my opinion was an inevitable match-up regardless, and still an interesting one to watch. BUT, at the end of the day – it’s not Diaz. Condit does not have the same tool box, and will likely be dominated by the superior St. Pierre. The good news is that Dana did have a change of heart, and rewarded with Diaz v. Penn – which should be a fantastic fight.
The question is – why Nick Diaz always surrounded by drama? Some people say it’s because he fights for money and not glory; Diaz has stated on numerous occasions as such. Others suggest it’s his background – growing up on the streets. Others say he is a true fighter, and this spills over into his personality all too often.
My opinion? I honestly believe he just doesn’t care about the glory, or the belt. I think he has a hard time dealing with the lights and cameras, and just wants nothing to do with it. I think the problem with this reality is that it will make for another untimely exit for him from the UFC, and there is a good chance we never will see GSP/Diaz fight. I do honestly hope I am wrong, but who knows. Nick’s volatility will be his undoing… and I truthfully don’t think he cares.
…And that is the last word.
