'It's very sad'… Vicente Luque breaks silence after Nick Diaz fight is cancelled again
Today at 06:26 AM
Nick Diaz pulled out of his rescheduled showdown against Vicente Luque shortly before a concerning video of the MMA legend went viral.
The pair were set to lock horns at UFC 310 on December 7 after their clash – originally scheduled to take place in August – was postponed due to 'travel issues.'
Former UFC middleweight title challenger Nick Diaz, meanwhile, has not entered the octagon since his devastating third-round stoppage defeat to Robbie Lawler back in 2021.
Yet still, the 41-year-old was prepared to launch himself into a controversial comeback fight, only to then remove himself from the contest for an unknown reason.
A video of Nick Diaz trying to set fire to grass goes viral
Over the past two years, five of Vicente Luque's assignments have been canceled, with the seasoned campaigner now hoping to restore some stability to his career.
Despite having never fought for a UFC title, 'The Silent Assassin' has established himself as one of the organization's most dangerous contenders.
Boasting victories over the likes of Belal Muhammad, Mike Perry and, more recently, Rafael Dos Anjos, the Brazilian has proven that, on his day, he is a handful for any fighter.
That said, Luque has ultimately suffered three defeats in his last four outings, coming off a devastating second-round knockout loss against top welterweight contender Joaquin Buckley.
And so, the 32-year-old will undoubtedly be looking to get back in the win column when he takes on his replacement opponent, who is rumored to be Themba Gorimbo, at UFC 310.
As for Diaz, however, it is unlikely that fans will see him back in the octagon anytime soon after the American was filmed attempting to set a patch of grass on fire.
Vicente Luque expresses his concern for Nick Diaz following UFC 310 fight cancellation
Diaz’s erratic behavior has unsurprisingly raised several eyebrows, though no one can say for certain what the motivation behind his bizarre stunt was.
Even now, Luque is unaware of the reason for his opponent's withdrawal, but nonetheless remains concerned for the wellbeing of his MMA idol.
"I don't know exactly why [it was canceled]," Luque told MMAFighting. "I saw that video of him in the streets, and he didn't look okay.
"And more than anything, I hope his family and he's taking care of himself. I hope he recovers and goes back to his best state possible."
"It's very sad to see him at that stage. Because I don't want that for anyone, much less a man that has inspired so many."
It is safe to say, too, that the majority of MMA fans echo the words of Luque, with Diaz's potential UFC return now representing a genuine cause for concern.
