Nate Diaz has a strong message for his critics who claim he has suffered brain damage from his fighting career. Despite being recognized for his resilience and endurance, Diaz vehemently denies that he takes excessive punishment or experiences any adverse effects from his long tenure in combat sports. Following his departure from the UFC, Jorge Masvidal publicly remarked that Diaz’s speech had been affected, even going as far as calling him a “borderline vegetable” due to the strikes he endured in the octagon.
While Diaz refrains from directly addressing Masvidal or any specific individuals, he acknowledges that he’s aware of the criticism directed at him. During an interview on The Pat McAfee Show, he clarifies that the common notion of him frequently absorbing punches is misguided. Diaz explains, “Contrary to what they say, I don’t actually eat punches like that. I get cut up from forearms and elbows, but let me tell you, I’ve been in a boxing gym. It might not seem like it, but I roll with most of the punches anyone throws at me. I don’t just walk in like some mindless brute. I’ve never been knocked out, not even close.”
Frustrated by the claims that his speech is indicative of brain damage or CTE, Diaz retorts, “These people talk about how I speak and imply that I have CTE or something. But, man, I’ve always talked this way, motherf******. It has nothing to do with getting hit or any of that. In fact, I’m smarter now than ever.”
As Diaz gears up for his upcoming boxing match against Jake Paul in August, his professional boxing debut, he admits that he’s actually in better health now compared to his MMA career. By shifting his focus solely to boxing, Diaz reduces the wear and tear on his body. While he acknowledges the inherent risks in boxing, particularly headshots, he feels great knowing that his body endures less strain without the wrestling and grappling of MMA.
Diaz emphasizes that every fight, be it in MMA or boxing, carries inherent risks, as someone is always trying to attack you. He remains acutely aware that he could be knocked out at any moment, which fuels his drive to train harder than most. “I’m always conscious of that fact,” he states. “That’s why I stay alert, no matter what.”
In his fight against Paul, now extended to 10 rounds instead of the initial 8, Diaz is preparing for all possible outcomes. He recognizes that the additional time benefits his cardio and conditioning, two of his greatest strengths. Diaz vows to make it a grueling and punishing experience for Paul, promising to wear him down before the final bell rings.
“I’ll go as many rounds as it takes to get a finish,” Diaz asserts confidently. “But let me tell you, the longer it goes, the more I’ll turn it into a living hell. He’s got a tough night ahead of him, and so do I. But I’m not afraid. I’m ready to rumble.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about combat sports
Q: What is Nate Diaz’s response to critics who claim he has brain damage from fighting?
A: Nate Diaz strongly refutes the claims of brain damage from critics, stating that he has been talking the same way his entire career and that his speech has nothing to do with getting hit. He emphasizes his endurance and intelligence and asserts that he has never been knocked out or suffered any significant negative effects from his fights.
Q: How does Nate Diaz feel about his upcoming boxing debut against Jake Paul?
A: Nate Diaz expresses confidence and readiness for his boxing debut against Jake Paul. He acknowledges the risks of boxing but mentions that he feels healthier now since he is focusing solely on boxing and avoiding the wear and tear associated with MMA. Diaz plans to make the fight a challenging and punishing experience for Paul, using his cardio and conditioning to wear him down.
Q: Does Nate Diaz believe he has sustained any brain damage from his career?
A: No, Nate Diaz firmly believes he has not suffered brain damage from his career in combat sports. He dismisses claims that his speech or cognitive abilities are indicative of brain damage, emphasizing that he has always spoken that way. Diaz asserts his intelligence and claims to be smarter now than ever.
Q: How does Nate Diaz approach the risks of fighting in both MMA and boxing?
A: Nate Diaz is always aware of the risks involved in combat sports, whether it’s MMA or boxing. He understands that any fight can result in a knockout and remains conscious of that possibility. This awareness motivates him to train harder than most and stay alert during his bouts.
Q: What changes have been made to Nate Diaz’s upcoming fight against Jake Paul?
A: The fight between Nate Diaz and Jake Paul has been changed from 8 rounds to 10 rounds. This extension benefits Diaz due to his renowned cardio and conditioning, as he can potentially utilize his strengths to wear down Paul throughout the extended duration of the fight.
More about combat sports
- Nate Diaz Responds to Critics
- Nate Diaz Interview on The Pat McAfee Show
- Nate Diaz’s upcoming boxing debut against Jake Paul
- Nate Diaz’s MMA career and achievements
