TLDR
- Nick Diaz is preparing to return to fighting after one year of sobriety
- The UFC icon has declared he sees himself becoming world champion
- Diaz has been a professional fighter for over two decades in MMA
- He has not specified when his comeback fight will take place
- The former Strikeforce welterweight champion is targeting a world title run
Sources: Yahoo Sports | talkSPORT
UFC legend Nick Diaz is preparing to make his return to fighting after completing one year of sobriety. The veteran fighter has announced his comeback plans with championship ambitions.
“I see myself becoming world champion,” Diaz said about his return to competition. The 41-year-old has been open about his journey to sobriety over the past year.
Diaz has been a fixture in mixed martial arts for more than 20 years. He built his reputation as one of the sport’s most exciting and unpredictable fighters.
Nick Diaz preparing for return to fighting: ‘I see myself becoming world champion’ https://t.co/FdR09nBAJ6
— MMA Mania (@mmamania) February 1, 2026
Career Background and Previous Success
The Stockton, California native previously held the Strikeforce welterweight championship. He competed in some of the biggest fights in UFC history during his career.
Diaz last fought in September 2021 when he faced Robbie Lawler at UFC 266. That bout ended in a third-round TKO loss for Diaz, who had been away from competition for over six years before that fight.
Before his return against Lawler, Diaz had not competed since January 2015. His career has been marked by long periods away from the octagon.
Throughout his career, Diaz became known for his striking skills and durability. He developed a loyal fan base that has supported him through his ups and downs.
Path to Sobriety and Future Plans
Diaz has now reached the one-year mark of sobriety, which he has called a personal achievement. This milestone appears to have motivated his decision to return to fighting.
The fighter has not announced a specific date for his comeback or named a potential opponent. No promotion or weight class has been confirmed for his return.
Diaz’s brother Nate is also a well-known UFC fighter who recently competed in boxing. The Diaz brothers have both maintained high profiles in combat sports.
Nick Diaz never won a UFC championship during his career with the promotion. His goal of becoming world champion would require a successful run through either the welterweight or middleweight division.
The fighter’s age and time away from competition could present challenges for a title run. However, Diaz has defied expectations throughout his career.
Diaz has competed at both welterweight and middleweight during his UFC tenure. He fought some of the biggest names in the sport including Anderson Silva, Georges St-Pierre, and Carlos Condit.
His return to fighting after achieving sobriety represents a new chapter in his long career. Diaz has not provided details about his training camp or preparation for the comeback.
The UFC has not commented on whether Diaz would return to the promotion or if he might sign with another organization. His last six fights all took place under the UFC banner.
