Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal: Worst fight in UFC history

In the world of mixed martial arts, few bouts capture the imagination of fans like the clash between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal. Billed as a fight to determine the “Badest Motheroff (BMF) in the UFC, their encounter was not just a contest of skill but a battle of sheer toughness and tenacity. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this fight one of the most iconic in UFC history.

Fighters: Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal

• Nate Diaz: The Ultimate Underdog
  Stockton, California, native Nate Diaz is known for his fierce fighting style and unflappable attitude. A veteran of the sport since winning “The Ultimate Fighter 5” in 2007, Diaz has been a fixture in the UFC. Diaz has faced some of the toughest fighters in the UFC, and his win over Conor McGregor in 2016 remains one of the biggest upsets in the sport’s history. Known for his outspoken personality, Diaz embodies the street fighter ethos, making him a fan favorite.

Jorge Masvidal: Street Fighter

• Jorge Masvidal, a native of Miami, Florida, has a background as colorful as his fight record. Before entering the world of professional MMA, Masvidal fought in backyard brawls organized by the late Kimbo Slice. These raw, unrefined beginnings shaped him into a fighter with exceptional striking ability and a relentless approach. Masvidal’s career is a testament to persistence and evolution. Dubbed “Gamebred”, Masvidal’s 2019 resurgence saw him deliver a record-setting 5-second knockout over Ben Askren, catapulting him to stardom and setting the stage for a BMF title fight against Diaz.

The Build-Up: The Birth of the BMF Title

• The BMF title idea came to life when Nate Diaz called out Jorge Masvidal after his victory over Anthony Pettis at UFC 241. Diaz praised Masvidal’s recent performances and challenged him, declaring that they were the worst in the game. UFC President Dana White accepted the idea and the fight was soon scheduled for UFC 244 at Madison Square Garden with a special BMF belt. The anticipation was electric, as fans eagerly awaited a fight that promised to be a no-holds-barred showcase of toughness.

The Fight: UFC 244 at Madison Square Garden

On November 2, 2019, Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal stepped into the Octagon under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation was sky high.

• Round 1: From the opening bell, Masvidal took control with his striking, using a well-placed elbow and a body kick to set the tone. Diaz, known for his ability to absorb punishment, remained steady despite the onslaught, moving forward.
• Round 2: Masvidal continued to dominate with precise and powerful strikes. His punches and kicks found their mark, opening a significant cut above Diaz’s right eye. Diaz, however, kept pressing, landing shots of his own and showing the heart he loves to the fans.
• Round 3: The intensity was high as both fighters traded blows. Diaz, despite the cuts and swelling, continued to advance, refusing to back down. Masvidal’s experience and tactical vision kept him ahead, but Diaz’s relentless spirit was on full display.

Stoppages: controversial yet necessary

• At the end of the third round, the ringside doctor called for a stoppage of the fight due to the severity of the cut on Diaz’s face. This decision, although controversial, was made keeping in mind the safety of the fighter. The crowd and spectators were divided – some felt that Diaz deserved to continue, while others acknowledged the need for treatment. Masvidal was declared the winner by TKO, claiming the BMF title, but both fighters’ reputations for toughness were solidified.

Next: Respect and reflection

• Despite the stoppage, the fight lived up to its hype. Masvidal emerges as the BMF titleholder, a fitting compliment to his journey and skill. Diaz, even in defeat, was celebrated for his fighting spirit. The respect between the fighters was evident, and both expressed their desire to potentially play it out in the future.
• For fans, Diaz vs. Masvidal wasn’t just a fight—it was a spectacle that highlighted the raw, unadulterated essence of mixed martial arts. It reminds everyone why the UFC remains the pinnacle of combat sports, where skill, heart and resilience combine in their purest form.

In conclusion, the fight between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal at UFC 244 will go down as one of the baddest and most entertaining fights in UFC history. It showcased two of the sport’s toughest fighters, fighting not just for the win, but for the honor of being the sport’s baddest motherf***er.