The world of combat sports has a peculiar relationship with the word “retirement.” It`s often less a definitive exit and more a carefully considered pause, particularly when the right opponent or the right sum of money presents itself. Such is the current narrative swirling around former UFC interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier, whose recent contemplation of a return to the squared circle for one specific, long-desired opponent has been met with a quintessential, blunt dismissal from the man himself: Nate Diaz.
Poirier, having seemingly put a definitive cap on his storied MMA career earlier this year at UFC 318, had allowed the faintest whisper of a comeback to escape. His condition? A 12-round boxing match against the enigmatic Stockton slugger, Nate Diaz. It was a proposition that immediately sparked interest among fight fans, given the history between the two. However, Diaz, ever the architect of his own narrative, wasted no time in pouring a generous measure of cold water on the idea, stating, “I’d beat your a– but you’re not allowed. PS you’re checked out already.”
A Feud Forged in Frustration
This isn`t merely a casual call-out; it`s the latest chapter in a rivalry that has festered for years, born from the frustration of a fight that never happened. Originally slated for UFC 230 at Madison Square Garden, the highly anticipated clash between Poirier and Diaz was abruptly canceled. While both sides offered differing accounts for the collapse, a mutual suspicion and a sense of unfinished business have lingered ever since. Poirier himself has openly acknowledged that the un-fought Diaz bout remains one of the few significant regrets of his otherwise illustrious career.
Diaz’s recent retort, particularly the phrase “you’re not allowed,” is a classic maneuver from the man who perfected the art of strategic disdain. It`s a statement loaded with layers, hinting at everything from perceived contractual restrictions (perhaps related to Zuffa Boxing, which Diaz has participated in) to a simple psychological jab questioning Poirier`s current commitment and readiness. To suggest Poirier is “checked out already” is to imply a lack of the hunger and grit necessary to step into a high-stakes encounter, a notion Poirier would undoubtedly contest.
From Octagon Dreams to Boxing Rings
The pivot to boxing is a significant detail here. Diaz, since his departure from the UFC in 2022, has actively embraced the boxing world, seeking new challenges and lucrative opportunities outside the confines of mixed martial arts. For Poirier, whose striking prowess is undeniable, a boxing match against a volume puncher like Diaz presents a unique stylistic challenge, one that perhaps minimizes the grappling elements that could be less appealing in a post-retirement comeback. It’s a clean slate, a chance to settle an old score under a slightly different set of rules.
Yet, Diaz`s rejection, delivered with typical Stockton bluntness, underscores the complexities of making such a fight a reality. It`s rarely as simple as two fighters wanting to compete. There are promoters, contracts, and, perhaps most importantly, the psychological gamesmanship that defines many high-profile matchups. Diaz has always operated on his own terms, and his current stance suggests Poirier will have to do more than merely express interest if he hopes to lure the veteran out.
The Enduring Allure of “What If”
For fans, the enduring appeal of a Diaz vs. Poirier showdown lies in the compelling “what if.” What if they had fought at UFC 230? What if this boxing match could actually materialize? Both fighters possess a warrior spirit and a willingness to engage in thrilling, high-volume exchanges. The thought of them exchanging leather for 12 rounds is undeniably captivating.
While Diaz’s response might seem like a definitive “no,” in the volatile world of combat sports, such pronouncements are often merely the opening salvo in a protracted negotiation. Poirier`s desire to rectify a career regret, combined with Diaz`s penchant for lucrative, high-profile spectacles, could yet pave the way for this long-awaited confrontation. For now, however, the “Diamond” remains retired, and the “Stockton Samurai” continues to dictate the terms, leaving fans to ponder what it truly means to be “not allowed” in a world where anything seems possible for the right price.
Percy Harlow 
Gareth Fenton