Former UFC title challenger and superstar fighter Nick Diaz appears to be in good spirits after a tumultuous last few years away from the Octagon.
The 42-year-old Diaz was scheduled to make a UFC comeback attempt against Vicente Luque at UFC Abu Dhabi in August 2024, but the fight was postponed due to travel issues on Diaz’s part. The fight was then moved to UFC 310, but Diaz withdrew from the fight due to unknown reasons and was subsequently replaced by Themba Gorimbo.
Since UFC 310, Diaz has been featured in viral footage displaying behavior including attempting to set fire to a patch of grass in a music video. Several of Diaz’s longtime friends and teammates provided subtle updates on Diaz’s health after the footage went viral, assuring fans that Diaz is receiving help and assistance for undisclosed issues.
Nearly a full year after the clip concerned loyal fans online, Diaz appears in good spirits and has returned to the gym.
Nick Diaz returns to the gym as speculation about the UFC’s comeback reignites
In a recent post on XDiaz’s old teammate Jake Shields showed off some playful sparring footage with the UFC legend.
A little sparing with Nick Diaz this morning
Nick was my best savings partner for over 15 years, so it’s good to get back together and train @nickdiaz209 pic.twitter.com/OLNHA1tPgR
— Jake Shields (@jakeshieldsajj) January 13, 2026
“A little sparring with Nick Diaz this morning,” Shields posted about Diaz.
“Nick was my best sparring partner for over 15 years, so it’s good to get back together and train.”
At the time of writing, it is uncertain whether the 42-year-old Diaz still wants to participate in martial arts. His last fight was against former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler at UFC 266, losing by TKO.
Diaz is considered one of the most beloved fighters to ever enter the Octagon, picking up wins against the likes of BJ Penn, Paul Daley and Lawler.
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