Nate Diaz claims credit as Conor McGregor vs. Max Holloway welterweight rematch takes shape

Nate Diaz is taking credit for Conor McGregor’s return to the welterweight division to face Max Holloway on July 11.

What happened?

Earlier this year, Diaz explained that his refusal to sign a third fight with McGregor at this stage pushed the Irishman toward a welterweight return. Diaz himself fought Mike Perry on Netflix last month and lost. McGregor’s return bout against Holloway was officially announced the same night Diaz’s Netflix fight took place.

Why it matters for Nate Diaz

Diaz and McGregor first fought at 170 pounds at UFC 196 in 2016. Since then, both have spent most of their careers at welterweight. Diaz hasn’t competed at lightweight since beating Michael Johnson in 2016. He ended that fight by calling out McGregor in a post-fight interview.

Diaz posted on X: “I made everybody welterweights.” He gave no further explanation. The welterweight main event at UFC 329 could give McGregor an edge over Holloway, who has mostly fought at featherweight.

What Conor McGregor has said

McGregor argued before UFC 329 that Holloway draining himself to make lightweight for the BMF title bout earlier this year lacked “zero BMF.” He also said this matchup would determine his return opponent. McGregor has pushed other fighters to compete at welterweight.

What comes next?

McGregor’s five-year layoff looms over the fight. Diaz’s role in shaping the welterweight landscape remains part of his legacy. The July 11 date keeps the welterweight rematch on track despite the long break from competition.