Boxing Insider Reveals Dana White’s Top Brass Role in Jorge Masvidal’s UFC Contract Amid Nate Diaz Fight Controversy
In a fight that electrified fans and settled an old score, Nate Diaz triumphed over Jorge Masvidal in their highly anticipated boxing rematch. Their first encounter at UFC 244 in 2019 saw Diaz losing via doctor stoppage, igniting a rivalry that demanded a more definitive conclusion. With Diaz transitioning to boxing after becoming a free agent and Masvidal still under UFC contract, the logistics of this bout were as intriguing as the fight itself.
Dana White’s Unconventional Decision
The bout’s organizer, Solomon Engel, CEO of Fanmio, shed light on the UFC’s surprising flexibility regarding Masvidal’s participation. Despite still being under UFC contract, Masvidal was allowed to step into the boxing ring with Diaz, thanks to a unique agreement facilitated by Dana White’s approval.
In a candid interview, Engel revealed,
“Fortunately, we have a great relationship with the UFC. Masvidal is still under contract with them, but we exclusively manage his boxing engagements. Working with the UFC to set up this match was a pleasure.”
This cooperation between the UFC and Fanmio underscores Dana White’s willingness to explore cross-promotion opportunities, especially for high-profile fighters like Masvidal and Diaz.
The Fight and Its Aftermath
Diaz’s relentless cardio and pressure tactics secured him a majority decision win, with the scores reading 95-95, 97-93, and 98-92 in his favor. While some fans questioned the scoring, the official result leveled the score between Diaz and Masvidal across both MMA and boxing to 1-1. Before the fight, Diaz had expressed his desire to have the rematch in MMA, stating, “I was like, why don’t we fight in MMA? Oh, he can’t fight MMA, he is not allowed,” highlighting the complexities of their contractual situations.
Masvidal’s Return to the UFC
After the bout, Masvidal clarified his future plans. In an interview with Michael Bisping, he disclosed, “The UFC allowed me three boxing fights before I return to finish my contract with them. After these three fights, it’s back to the UFC. One of the conditions is that I come back and do one more fight.”
Masvidal’s last UFC appearance was a unanimous decision loss to Gilbert Burns at UFC 287, after which he announced a hiatus from active competition. Despite his setbacks in title bids against Kamaru Usman, Masvidal is eyeing a return against current welterweight champion Leon Edwards. Reflecting on his aspirations, Masvidal told Bisping, “I would love to fight Leon. Hopefully, he still has the belt when I come back around. Let’s see what happens.”
Engel stated, “…fortunately we have a great relationship with them (UFC), he (Masvidal) is under contract with them still. We are under contract with him exclusively for boxing but it was a pleasure working with them and putting this deal together.”
The Leon Edwards Factor
The potential Masvidal vs. Edwards bout is steeped in history. The two clashed backstage at UFC London in 2019, leading to the infamous “three-piece and a soda” incident. Edwards, who will defend his title against Belal Muhammad at UFC 304 on July 27, might still be the welterweight king when Masvidal makes his comeback. This lingering tension between Masvidal and Edwards promises a dramatic showdown, rekindling their unresolved rivalry.
Masvidal stated, “(After these three fights) back to the UFC. The UFC said one of the conditions is that I come back and do one (more) fight.”
A New Era of Cross-Promotional Fights?
The arrangement allowing Masvidal to compete in boxing while under UFC contract could signify a new era of cross-promotional fights, where high-stakes bouts transcend the boundaries of traditional MMA and boxing frameworks. Dana White’s willingness to adapt and collaborate could lead to more blockbuster events, satisfying fans’ appetites for unique and thrilling matchups.
As the combat sports world continues to evolve, the Diaz-Masvidal bout serves as a benchmark for future cross-promotional events. The rivalry, the stakes, and the cooperation behind the scenes illustrate a dynamic shift in how major fights can be orchestrated.
Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal’s rematch was more than a fight; it was a testament to evolving combat sports dynamics. With the UFC showing flexibility and fighters like Masvidal navigating both MMA and boxing, the landscape is ripe for innovative matchups. Fans can only speculate on the next big cross-promotional bout, but one thing is certain: the future of combat sports is exciting and unpredictable.
