This weekend is definitely going to be a cracker for MMA fans as Las Vegas plays host to one of the most awaited welterweight bouts at UFA 196. It’s Irish superstar Conor McGregor vs. Nate Diaz and both are looking good so fans can expect a tough bout.
The event was originally to be held at the HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil but was later shifted to the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Originally, the event was supposed to be kickoff with a UFC Lightweight Championship bout between Rafael dos Anjos and Conor McGregor, the UFC Featherweight Champion. This would have been only the second time in UFC’s history where two different divisions vied for a title.
Unfortunately, Dos Anjos had to withdraw due to a broken foot while Jose Aldo, the former featherweight champion declined to be the replacement since he wouldn’t have time to prepare for the bout. Frankie Edgar, the top featherweight contender and former lightweight champion also suffered a groin injury and therefore declined.
However, it’s now The Ultimate Fighter 5 winner and former lightweight title challenger, Nate Diaz who will take on McGregor who is now stepping up to welterweight. Also gracing the ring in the UFC Women’s Bantamweight Championship bout is Holly Holm who will take on Meisha Tate, the former Strikeforce Women’s Bantamweight Champion.
Things have already heated up between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz who reportedly argued for an hour at the pre-match press conference. They almost came to blows according to press reports. However, everyone is looking forward to the fight, which some experts say suits McGregor who is said to have the upper hand in boxing even though Nate has a height and reach advantage. The Irish strongman’s current stats read 17 KO’s in 19 victories. So all said and done, Diaz would need to get the fight to the ground as soon as possible.
Nevertheless, one must salute Nate Diaz who has accepted the bout with just 11 days notice. What remains to be seen is if McGregor’s speed and movement will be affected due to the change in weight class. Some experts are of the opinion that McGregor can use his kicks on the outside to nullify Diaz’s reach advantage. There are also doubts about whether Diaz will be able to go through 5 championship rounds.
Stick around for more MMA news and all the juicy bits about the McGregor/Diaz standoff.
Author : Rory McGregor
