In a highly anticipated boxing rematch between Nate Diaz vs Jorge Masvidal, Nate Diaz emerged victorious over Jorge Masvidal via majority decision at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles, reigniting their rivalry that began in the UFC Octagon five years ago. The closely contested bout, which saw both fighters unleash over 1,400 punches, showcased Diaz’s relentless volume against Masvidal’s more impactful strikes.
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Rematch in the Ring
The boxing match between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal took place on July 6, 2024, at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, as part of the “Last Man Standing” pay-per-view event. This light heavyweight bout marked a rematch of their previous encounter in the UFC, where Masvidal had claimed victory in 2019 for the BMF championship. Both fighters were making their second appearance in a professional boxing ring, with Diaz entering the match with a 0-1 record and Masvidal at 1-0. The event garnered significant attention from combat sports fans, as it pitted two former UFC rivals against each other in a different combat discipline, promising an intriguing clash of styles and a chance for Diaz to seek revenge.
Punches and Performance
The boxing match between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal was a high-energy affair that showcased both fighters’ unique styles and endurance. Here are the key highlights and fight statistics:
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- Both fighters demonstrated impressive stamina, throwing over 1,400 punches combined throughout the 10-round bout.
- Masvidal landed more total punches (182) compared to Diaz (151).
- Diaz employed a strategy of high-volume, rapid-fire combinations.
- Masvidal countered with more powerful, looping punches, often from a southpaw stance.
- Neither fighter scored a knockdown or landed a fight-ending blow.
- Diaz showcased his trademark resilience, shrugging off Masvidal’s body shots.
- The fight was characterized by Diaz’s relentless forward pressure and Masvidal’s impactful bursts.
- Masvidal often found himself cornered against the ropes, defending against Diaz’s flurries.
- The bout went the full 10 rounds, with both fighters remaining on their feet until the final bell.
- The Honda Center was filled to capacity with 18,040 enthusiastic spectators.
Despite Masvidal landing more punches overall, Diaz’s aggressive style and consistent pressure throughout the fight likely influenced the judges’ decision in his favor.
Diaz Wins by Decision
The boxing match between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal concluded with a closely contested decision. Here are the key details of the fight result:
- Nate Diaz emerged victorious over Jorge Masvidal via majority decision.
- The judges’ scorecards were:
- 95-95 (draw)
- 97-93 (in favor of Diaz)
- 98-92 (in favor of Diaz)
- The fight went the full 10 rounds.
- Masvidal landed more total punches (182) compared to Diaz (151).
- Diaz’s higher volume of punches and relentless advance contrasted with Masvidal’s more impactful bursts of power.
- The fight was described as a thrilling boxing brawl, with both fighters showcasing distinct styles.
Despite Masvidal landing more punches overall, Diaz’s aggressive style and consistent pressure throughout the fight likely influenced the judges’ decision in his favor.
Nate Diaz vs Jorge Masvidal Purses and Bonuses
The fight purses for the Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal boxing match revealed a significant disparity in guaranteed earnings, with potential for additional income based on pay-per-view performance. Here are the key details:
- Nate Diaz’s guaranteed purse: $500,000.
- Jorge Masvidal’s guaranteed purse: $300,000.
- Both fighters had the opportunity to earn additional money through pay-per-view sales.
- The pay-per-view price was set at a relatively low $24.99.
- Anthony Pettis, fighting on the undercard, was set to earn the second-highest guaranteed purse at $350,000.
- Chris Avila, Pettis’s opponent, was guaranteed $210,000.
Despite the difference in guaranteed purses, both Diaz and Masvidal had the potential to boost their earnings into seven-figure ranges if the pay-per-view performed well.
Undercard Bouts and Payouts
The undercard for the Diaz vs. Masvidal event featured several notable fights and substantial purses for some fighters. Anthony Pettis, a former UFC lightweight champion, was set to earn the second-highest guaranteed purse on the card at $350,000, while his opponent Chris Avila was guaranteed $210,000. The co-main event saw Shane Mosley Jr. facing former champion Daniel Jacobs, with purses of $160,000 and $100,000, respectively. Other notable bouts included Sean Garcia, brother of Ryan Garcia, facing Amanda Vargas with purses of $50,000 and $100,000. The undercard also featured up-and-coming fighters like Curmel Monton ($40,000) and Devin Cushing ($60,000), showcasing a mix of established names and rising talents.
UFC 244 to Boxing
The boxing match between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal was rooted in their previous encounter at UFC 244 in November 2019, where Masvidal emerged victorious via TKO due to a doctor’s stoppage from a cut over Diaz’s eye. This fight was for the symbolic “BMF” title, adding to its significance. Following their UFC careers, both fighters transitioned to boxing, with Diaz facing Jake Paul in his first professional boxing match. Masvidal retired from MMA in 2023 after a string of losses but maintained his presence in combat sports through his promotion, Gamebred FC. Their boxing rematch provided an opportunity for Diaz to settle the score and for both fighters to showcase their skills in a new arena, capitalizing on their enduring popularity and rivalry from their UFC days.
See also UFC 303 Purses and Results: Alex Pereira Retains Title, Fighter Salaries Revealed
Impact and Future Prospects
The Diaz vs. Masvidal boxing match marked a significant milestone in both fighters’ careers, showcasing their ability to transition from MMA to boxing while maintaining their fan appeal. Diaz’s majority decision victory not only avenged his previous UFC loss but also demonstrated his adaptability and endurance in a new combat discipline. The event’s success and the fighters’ performances could potentially open doors for future high-profile boxing matches or even a return to MMA for both competitors. While Diaz’s next move remains uncertain, a return to the UFC seems plausible, and Masvidal, despite his recent retirement from MMA, has hinted at a possible comeback. The match’s outcome and reception may influence their future career decisions, potentially shaping the landscape of cross-disciplinary combat sports events.
Key Quotes
- CBS Sports: “Nate Diaz def. Jorge Masvidal via majority decision (95-95, 97-93, 98-92)”
- MMA Fighting: “Diaz’s relentless activity, while not as forceful as Masvidal’s strikes, swayed the judges with his sheer volume of punches.”
- Forbes: “Diaz’s victory in the boxing ring adds to his legacy as a relentless and durable fighter.”
This rematch was a testament to the enduring rivalry and fighting spirit of Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal, promising more exciting bouts in their futures.
