Diaz Mocks Topuria After Gaethje Loss

Nate Diaz took a shot at Ilia Topuria following the Georgian's title loss to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250.

The former lightweight champion dropped the belt to Gaethje earlier this year in what many considered one of the biggest upsets in UFC history. Speaking at the Ki MMA launch event Monday, Diaz told MMA Junkie that Topuria received an artificial push before facing legitimate competition. "He called me a punching bag, he's a punching bag," Diaz said, per MMA Junkie. "He got his ass whooped, and they made a big deal out of him just like they did out of Conor when he started coming up, getting an early pump up before you've been in a real fight."

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Diaz Compares Topuria Hype To McGregor's Early Rise

The Stockton veteran drew parallels between Topuria's trajectory and Conor McGregor's early UFC career, suggesting both fighters benefited from promotional momentum before meeting top-tier opposition. Diaz dismissed concern over what the UFC does with Topuria next but made clear his assessment of the fallen champion. "That's what happened to him when he got into a real fight with Justin Gaethje," he said. "Now look at you."

An immediate rematch between Topuria and Gaethje has been floated by some in the promotion but questioned by fans and analysts. Topuria's coach recently contradicted Dana White's claims about a quick comeback, leaving the Georgian's next move uncertain.

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Diaz remains one of combat sports' most unpredictable figures with no clear path forward in either MMA or boxing. His next appearance has yet to be announced.

Reported via:

• BJPenn — Nate Diaz mocks Ilia Topuria for his defeat to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250