Nate Diaz has never been one to let a grudge settle. After months of speculation regarding his next move in combat sports, the Stockton native has made his intentions clear: he wants to bring Jake Paul into his world for an MMA rematch. The proposal marks a significant shift in the narrative between the two, moving away from the squared circle where they first met and toward the cage where Diaz built his legendary reputation.
The Shift from Boxing Ring to the SmartCage
The history between Diaz and Paul is well-documented, centered primarily on their ten-round boxing encounter last August. While Paul secured a unanimous decision victory in that bout, Diaz has consistently maintained that the ruleset heavily favored the YouTuber-turned-prizefighter. In recent statements, Diaz has indicated that the only way to truly settle the score is under a professional MMA banner.
For Diaz, a return to MMA isn’t just about reclaiming a win; it’s about leverage. Since his departure from the UFC following a submission win over Tony Ferguson, Diaz has operated as a high-profile free agent. While he enjoyed the payday and the spectacle of the boxing world, his roots remain firmly planted in mixed martial arts. He has suggested that Paul’s previous claims of being a “disruptor” in the sport should be put to the test where the rules allow for more than just punching.
A Massive Offer on the Table
The logistical hurdle for this potential clash isn’t just interest, but organization. The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has been vocal about wanting to facilitate this transition. After signing Jake Paul to a multi-year deal for their “PFL PPV Super Fights” division, the promotion reportedly offered Diaz a $10 million purse to step into the cage with Paul. At the time, Diaz seemed hesitant, preferring to keep his options open or perhaps return to the UFC for a trilogy with Conor McGregor.
But the tide appears to have turned. Diaz’s latest social media activity and interviews suggest he is ready to call Paul’s bluff. Paul has often bragged about his high school wrestling background, claiming he would be a legitimate threat in MMA. Diaz, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt under Cesar Gracie, seems eager to expose the gap between a high school athlete and a 15-year veteran of the Octagon.
What This Means for Jake Paul’s Career
Jake Paul finds himself at a crossroads. He has upcoming commitments in the boxing ring, most notably a high-profile sanctioned bout against Mike Tyson. However, the pressure to prove his “real fighter” credentials often leads him back to the MMA conversation. If he accepts the Diaz rematch in a cage, he faces a level of peril he hasn’t yet encountered. In boxing, Paul can rely on his power and improved fundamentals; in MMA, he would have to contend with Diaz’s relentless pace, clinch work, and world-class submission game.
Industry insiders suggest that for Paul, this is the ultimate “high-risk, high-reward” scenario. A loss to Diaz in MMA is expected, but a win—or even a competitive showing—would silence many of his loudest detractors in the combat sports community.
The Stockton Factor and Diaz’s Legacy
Nate Diaz doesn’t need the money, but he does seem to need the competition. At this stage of his career, he is focused on “real” fights. To Diaz, boxing is a side quest, while MMA is the main objective. By demanding Paul move to his territory, he is asserting his dominance in the negotiation process. Whether this happens under the PFL banner or as a co-promoted “Real Fight Inc.” event remains to be seen, but the intent is undeniable.
And it’s not just about Paul. Diaz has teased that he still has “unfinished business” in several directions. However, the Paul rematch represents the biggest immediate commercial draw outside of a UFC return. If the terms are right, and the cage is locked, it would likely be one of the most-watched MMA events of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Nate Diaz officially signed a contract for an MMA fight with Jake Paul?
Not yet. While Diaz has expressed his desire for the rematch in MMA and the PFL has made a significant financial offer, no official bout agreement has been signed by both parties as of April 2026.
What are the rules differences Diaz is counting on?
In MMA, Diaz can utilize his superior grappling, leg kicks, and clinch striking—all of which were neutralized in their boxing match. Specifically, his submission game is considered light-years ahead of Paul’s.
Is Jake Paul still planning to fight Mike Tyson first?
Yes, the scheduled boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson remains the immediate priority for Paul’s camp before any potential transition to the PFL cage for an MMA debut.
