A big rematch between Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz is in the works.
According to TMZ Sports, the pair could compete “BMF” title for a second time at UFC 256 in December. Masvidal and Diaz first fought over that unique belt at UFC 244, headlining the billing in New York City’s Madison Square Garden last November.
However, TMZ reported that UFC 256 would also play host to a UFC welterweight title fight between Kamaru Usman and Gilbert Burns.
Jorge Masvidal vs. Nathan Diaz 2 has been offered and is being discussed, but it wouldn’t be for the same night as Usman-Burns, as TMZ reported. It would be for the January PPV. No chance those two would agree to be the co-main anyway. All parties interested but not signed yet.
— Ariel Helwani (@arielhelwani) September 1, 2020
ESPN’s Ariel Helwani reported that the UFC is negotiating between Masvidal and Diaz, but a rematch wouldn’t be booked as a co-main event to Usman – Burns. Therefore, it’s likelier that the fight will take place in January if all parties sign the dotted line.
Later during the DWCS press conference, UFC President Dana White confirmed they are looking at booking the fight and that Masvidal wants to put his BMF belt on the line.
First time around, Masvidal won said belt with a TKO (doctor’s stoppage) victory over Diaz.
The fight was called to a halt early due to a cut on Diaz’s eye as the pair were about to come out for the fourth round. Many contested the stoppage, saying it was premature.
That win put an exclamation mark on a big 2019 for Masvidal as he was catapulted to superstardom following almost two decades of hard graft in the sport, adding to his emphatic victories over Darren Till and Ben Askren.
Masvidal fought on late notice for the UFC welterweight championship against Usman at UFC 251 on Fight Island, losing a five-round unanimous decision.
Diaz hasn’t competed in the Octagon since his outing with Masvidal in November.
