Nick Diaz on UFC 266 return, fighting Robbie Lawler & more | ESPN MMA

Nick Diaz sits down with ESPN MMA’s Brett Okamoto ahead of his rematch vs. Robbie Lawler at UFC 266 and discusses how Nick feels as his first fight in the UFC in over 6 years nears, as well as how witnessing his brother Nate’s most recent bout made an impact on him.
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[@yanisocratous]

Doesn't want to fight but wants to fight the champ. Doesn't like fighting but fought his whole life. Not good with words but really good with explaining. Says he's the best fighter and he's scared to fight. Says he's not confident but super confident when in the cage. This guy is truly something else. LEGEND

[@joelm6631]

Best part is ..it all makes sense.

[@WS-bk7uu]

Beautifully put.

[@deej20007]

Especially for those of us who grew tired of Course antics

[@jayrod7773]

Oh wow You’re such a great analyst I would buy a code I don’t say anything I wouldn’t say to your face. How bout u

[@evanterry8139]

It’s called a love hate relationship pretty common

[@morganrae2121]

Man I really feel for Nick, he's like a lot of us nowadays just struggling to figure out who he really is or what he really wants in life, you can tell he has his own demons and self doubt. So real. So relatable. I hope he gets the W

[@rc28ify]

Yup all before time runs out or your moment is gone

[@marksilva2929]

Man he just summed up the way everyone feels. Are we all in a depression? All the good BJJ and MMA gyms closed, he invested so much into his academy's. If it wasn't for this fu#$ing pandemic, he would have been so successful. I hope he starts up another academy, I love his style of jits.

[@josueportillo9006]

Yup everyone needs Jesus. Dark times we are living in. Jesus is the only way truth and life.

[@diagnosedsociopath1502]

Yeah man, I’m worried about him. I’ve been a long time fan. He reminds me so much of myself. His head isn’t in the right place, you can tell.

[@paulnhbtx713]

You def not nick. Shut up

[@lariosmendoza]

That sadness in his heart is heavy, I’m going to pray for you Nick.

[@lodhi8972]

Same man

[@stephenstinnett504]

He needs him coming to the fight fat proves he deals with a demon that thinks it can do whatever it wants.

[@lydialemaster6851]

Can feel it as he speaks. I touch and agree with you in prayer for nick

[@Khalils3]

What a wonderful thing to say, God bless. You spoke the truth

[@mijonate6484]

praying for someone is huge and shows that u really care about them. God bless u man

[@edselsugay5342]

“It’s like I’m being punished for not being a regular person.” There’s depth in that statement. I appreciate Nick’s transparency.

[@L_cca]

Do you think you could explain that? I didn’t understand what he meant

[@netharias6456]

@@L_cca It's quite obscure what he meant and we can only infer. The Diaz brothers don't share much about their history and life, but sometimes people coax them to speak. Nick has had a very tragic life, and includes things like his girlfriend's suicide and more horrible stuff. I believe he feels left out from society to an extent. He's tasted the bitterness of life and can't understand how everyone around him pretends it tastes sweet. He's not playing the game of "im fine, i have to look fine externally I have a fight to sell". This isn't show business for him, it's his life. He didn't have a choice and picked it, it's the only thing he found out he could do, or knows how to do. I believe Nick wishes he had more options in life, and we as his fans wish life had been a little kinder to him. He definitely isn't your average joe, and he certainly feels that. It's probably harder for him to connect with people, especially now that he's famous - a lot of people get close to you just for the fame.

[@avelardovalle8784]

@@netharias6456 he was punished over weed, at his PRIME he was taken out. than Mcgreggor comes in the picture making millions all while Diaz been in the game longer, the sport hasn’t been good to him. For all we know he might be broke he’s just coming because he doesn’t know What else to do to make money.

[@bigmule35]

The bad part is that "regular people " will always be clueless to what he is saying . They will not and can not get it .

[@edselsugay5342]

@@netharias6456 well said my friend. Cheers.

[@mohamdan2075]

You can seriously feel this man’s pain and inner conflict. Extremely raw and authentic interview.

[@jice6363]

Yes I think he’s gonna let years off bottled up aggression out on lawler but lawler can catch him and ko him hats off to whichever man wins

[@victorc824]

It should have been an hour at least.

[@thisisrivera1]

@@victorc824 Nicks an introvert it would take alot out of him.

[@jdmbeats]

Blame the NSAC for robbing Nick of 5 years off his career. All for weed! Yet, you got guys like Jon Jones getting away with hella stuff.

[@anasibndawood6696]

Needs guidance. The Quran, leads to the creator

[@jasekemp8777]

“I took harder punches watching that, than I ever did In sparring or in fights.” 🥺

[@timeless.balance]

That line hit hard, no pun intended. Truthfully this man has so much heart, and it literally bleeds from him in the cage and well outside too.

[@josa5112]

Anyone who loves their younger brother feels that to the core.

[@rekthereaper3760]

This man loves his little brother so much

[@Pulsed101]

Which fight was he referring to?

[@hartingjonbalaj2699]

@@Pulsed101 edwards

[@gianfrancopacchioni4387]

"Do I feel confident? I never do. I never have. I've always felt like I'm gonna get trashed out there. Every fight I've ever done". Never imagined hearing Nick say that and I respect him for it. As real as it gets, and as brave as you can be. That is why he is my #1 all time favorite fighter. Cannot wait to watch him fight this Saturday.

[@cullencalabria5636]

I never feel confident two minutes later i would beat the shot put of usman thats an easy fight lol love nick

[@lucrative6477]

He’s said the same thing his whole career.

[@rafaelpenaloza9304]

Same man but I just hope he wins tonight

[@theglassmaster3140]

Nick is only speaking what all fighters are thinking. He's just honest about it. That's the last thing I'd worry about. The only thing that's concerning to me is the fact that he doesn't want a trash talk or talk sht. If you're a fan of Nick's then you know that has always been a way for him to psych himself up because he doesn't like to hurt people. So he's always said that he has to convince himself he hates the person so he can go out there and beat them up. I'd be a lot more confident if he would talk a little sht. LOL

[@ludahwolf3634]

Agree 100 mane!

[@Zaddy_Dynamite]

“Helping people was a bad idea , I thought it was good but I shoulda been helping myself” MY GOD !! The realness in that

[@kinetickutz]

Helping others is good. He just needs to find balance in all of it.

[@firstnamelastname-ko3ge]

Nick Right Now- *“Im Nervous”* Nick during the fight- *“You punch like a b*tch”* 😂😂😂😂😂

[@irishscience580]

typical anxiety. hes nervous up until it then you realize its not as bad and you get comfortable

[@firstnamelastname-ko3ge]

@@irishscience580 It’s normal. Mike Tyson said he use to cry before every fight and always thought he would lose, Gsp use to cry as well, Ceronne throws up, Rose cried right before her walk out when she KO’d Joanna. It’s normal, I just know Nick is gonna be a dam savage when the bell rings

[@peterhans9520]

@@firstnamelastname-ko3ge Stop, he said that he is crying because he dont like his own personality in the ring, not because he thought he gonna loose this fight.

[@evenruderanger7617]

Yeet

[@mikehunt4797]

@@peterhans9520 he's lost it seems.

[@Leg3ndKilla687]

“Why are you here this week?” “It was inevitable” The old school fans can testify That hit different.

[@vincentkc48]

You absolutely right

[@nicadamo5703]

Agreed!

[@gandishshiznil]

I tell you now Nick has me with a glint in my eye man 😢

[@roethlisbergerpolamalu4183]

Right in the heart

[@Leg3ndKilla687]

@@gandishshiznil yeah this interview got me sneaky teary eyed

[@otisdreading]

I’m actually kind of bummed that he feels this way but impressed with his honesty. I feel like Nick doesn’t understand how much the fans love him.

[@FahimAhmed-xj9lq]

I'm sure he does, but regardless, he doesn't seem to derive any real enjoyment from the game.

[@itaachiii]

@@FahimAhmed-xj9lq yes he does but he frankly does not care about the fans love bc whats in it for him?! That was what he was alluding to even when the interviewer asked him about the fans he ungenuinely said "i love you and i appreciate" in the fakest way possible lol. He seems to be going through some tough times i really hope he overcomes this as fast as he can.

[@F10cke]

@@itaachiii whait what? He admitted and clarified, that him saying "i love you all" is not the truth - 18:26

[@stephenstinnett504]

He does. We just do not get how tortured he is and why no one can actually help. Demons think they can do whatever they want to talented individuals and baby the ones that are willing to beg and worship.

[@Saiyansteve]

Best interview in sports ever. That honestly gave me goosebumps, mad respect for my boy. This is a real fighter no gimmicks, no glittery chains and watches, no filter.

[@mwolf9868]

Lol calm your tits

[@stephenstinnett504]

He needs fans like you. Him showing up to the fight fat proves he is still tortured by a demon he only came in contact with through the UFC.

[@berniemac4422]

Exactly

[@notaburner5002]

glaze

[@joshsullivan9064]

@@notaburner5002 donuts

[@Twisted_Badger]

"I'm doing this for everyone else"- WE LOVE YOU NICK. THANK YOU

[@Leg3ndKilla687]

Makes me feel guilty for wanting and begging him to come back ever since he got off his suspension lol

[@trigger_please]

Being an older brother, it really hits you hard when he speaks about his baby brother. As real as it gets

[@TehCream]

He’s spoken before about fighting so his brother doesn’t have to. I think seeing him talk about watching Nate get pieced up by Leon really shows that too. I think he got this Robbie fight because he felt responsible for that. Like he thinks he should have been doing that with Leon, and Nate should have been protected by him. I think we’re seeing Nick fight for all the wrong reasons this weekend, and I don’t think it bodes well for him.

[@rohansharma3663]

@@TehCream I see my small sister cry over some stupid things I feel bad imagine having your brother going to war and getting hurt it isn't easy for anybody he shouldn't fight for his brother or anyone he should fight for himself I believe Nick has enough only he doesn't look like a guy who throws money and buys stupid jewelry and he also has his own successful academy fighting should be for yourself not money or fame

[@remi4744]

@@rohansharma3663 He has his own successful academy? Why was he talking about starting one here, and said it never got started?

[@ziryabjamal]

@@TehCream only guy I've seen who gets it so far. I agree with what you said entirely, we all remember the bravado of the Diaz bros, they were at a certain point in time, far beyond anyone in MMA. But that Leon fight with his brother really showed how far the sport has progressed. It was a timing issue for Nick and at times he really sounded bitter in this interview, its understandable.

[@rohansharma3663]

@@remi4744 he has the nick diaz academy in Lodi Cali I believe

[@JimboB-jj9lk]

I just want to give this guy a hug. Love that he is 100% real.

[@theeternalnow6506]

Yeah, I could feel a lot of sadness in him. This feels pretty tragic if I'm honest. Like, the motivation feels all wrong for this. I hope he'll be okay after.

[@colinjones8265]

Me too bro

[@5O4evr]

That's kinda weird.. he'd probably slap you for that

[@sergiozarate9739]

He' need help especially after that beat down 😭😅

[@tylermcnamara8794]

The whole response to "why do you feel you have to fight" and he said all the things he could get for OTHERS really speaks to his character. Nick is clearly a guy who does these things not for himself, but for the people he cares about.

[@projetsmith]

He is my little baby brother

[@jeffreychase2406]

Just what he sells in Nick Diaz merchandise leading up to this fight is more money then most fighters will make for headlining

[@andrewroberts4071]

Fighting is a way out... Kinda like the biggy line. " The crack rock or a jump shot"

[@demond2134]

I lost it when Nick said “even when I win I get beat up worst” and did that hand thing 😂😂😂...Nick’s the man

[@Hamigal]

🙏❤

[@bjtbjt8430]

Nick and Nate eat the big shots but give out bigger beatings- RESPECT-

[@MarcosAmparo]

This didn't feel like an interview, this felt like a therapy session.

[@SherLock55]

It's like there are two Nick's and they are at war with one another, you can see the gears turning in his head and the constant back and forth battle. I really like the dude though just like his brother he is a real one.

[@blakereigns246]

💯in a good way.

[@AZERTY-cs2ty]

brett just sucks

[@jamesanderson8410]

This is not a therapy session

[@MarcosAmparo]

@@blakereigns246 Definitely in a good way.

[@dualityofman1253]

This is one of the most troubling interviews I've ever seen. Clearly Nick Diaz shouldn't be fighting anymore. He sounds depressed and lost. He hasn't fought in 6 years. Why hasn't someone close to him put a stop to this fight? He's a legend of the sport and doesn't need to prove anything.

[@revan91m]

everybodys praising him and nobody sees it. hes depressed, you are right. he is the typical athlete who struggles after his prime with the second half of his life. Nick should not fight anymore and find a new passion.

[@williamboyle8918]

It does seem for monetary reasons. Sux.

[@anonymous1745]

The absolute truth! He’s doing it to please others.

[@theeternalnow6506]

I agree. This might be a tragedy in the making.

[@oscarcabrera1032]

@KobeR true but win or lose the organization still the winner

[@seNor916x4]

Zero acting or putting on a character front, Nick doesn’t even try to self promote or brag, just his true self.💯

[@WeirdEdz]

When nick started talking about how nate was bumping into him with his weight class and said fine have it all i just want you to be okay. Thats real brother love right there. Never seen nick so real

[@crujones2849]

I’ve never seen nick not real

[@WeirdEdz]

@@crujones2849 he always is but im saying i havent seen him like that almost like he was gonna cry.

[@anthonygray6570]

@@WeirdEdz happens when you get older and mature

[@seanfrank32]

Is it possible that's why he moved to 185?

[@isuckeggs4094]

@@seanfrank32 no, he just couldn’t make weight

[@akramarebi123]

He may not be the most articulate person, but, in the octagon he's an absolute poet. - Steve Heath

[@issacnewton7059]

But he is! He is so articulate I couldn't put feelings into words like he does do vividly. You just can't relate that's all

[@lanceward3352]

He's a poet... The words in his head just have to come out. We only get a small glimpse at an amazing mind

[@dakotahtonderum2266]

@@issacnewton7059 And the fact he’s so honest and open about the way he feels, just not something we see very often in combat sports. It’s refreshing, honestly; whether someone agrees with what he says or not

[@ysph]

seems pretty articulate to me. sincere like a child. even the most academic humans typically aren't capable of that.

[@dumas5773]

haha that wasn't Caesar Gracie. put some respect on my man Steve Heath's name!! ya noob.

[@murp1525]

When he says "then I realised I don't have that many real freinds" heartbreaking. But all THE REALS in this world have very little freinds.. nick just doesn't realise sometimes that he's a boss

[@canadianlove2128]

Not enough credit going to Brett O. Incredible masterpiece from him creating the space for Nick to speak. Absolute top of the interviewing game in Okamoto.

[@T.R.U.T.H..]

He's a good interviewer, but unfortunately the wrong interviewer.

[@ChadHooverFishing]

@@T.R.U.T.H.. he was the absolute right interviewer for this

[@startingtech3900]

Is he Japanese?

[@saiqanazam3263]

@@T.R.U.T.H.. lol

[@customjrod]

"Whay am I fighting robbie Lawler, who ever set this up is an idiot". Got to love this guy.

[@Mrporkyporkchop]

@@Esb906 but steroids is cool tho right

[@johnfran3218]

When things were at their very worst: 2 Suns, Cross in the sky, 2 comets will collide = don`t be afraid - repent, accept Lord`s Hand of Mercy. Scientists will say it was a global illusion. Beware - Jesus will never walk in flesh again. After WW3 - rise of the “ man of peace“ from the East = Antichrist - the most powerful, popular, charismatic and influential leader of all time. Many miracles will be attributed to him. He will imitate Jesus in every conceivable way. Don`t trust „pope“ Francis = the False Prophet - will seem to rise from the dead - will unite all Christian Churches and all Religions as one. One World Religion = the seat of the Antichrist. Benedict XVI is the last true pope - will be accused of a crime of which he is totally innocent. "Many events, including ecological upheavals, wars, the schism in My Church on Earth, the dictatorships in each of your nations - bound as one, at its very core - will all take place at the same time." "Arab uprising will spark global unrest - Italy will trigger fall out" The Book of Truth

[@Unlmtdprogress]

@@Esb906 but steroids, vehicular manslaughter, cocaine are totally fine right?

[@anekinoo7]

So does it make him an idiot for signing the contact?

[@Craig-xf1fx]

Veggie

[@kickdawson]

Gotta say this is more like a therapy session than an interview. But it’s so refreshing to see someone being real infront if the cameras rather than putting on an act. I don’t know if I’m worried for him or not, but I appreciate the honesty regardless. Gotta love the Diaz brothers

[@realhedi7911]

I was just gonna say that.

[@BlackCanvasAudio]

I could not have said it better. This is real.

[@southside1975]

I don't see this going well for Nick in this fight I hope I'm wrong.

[@flipdawhip2573]

@@southside1975 dang, feel like Robbie gonna wreck Nick, sucks. Feel bad for Nick, he just doesnt seem like he wants to be fighting.

[@riccoronado430]

Watch it be an act lol

[@drakejones7013]

This is beautifully depressing. A true fighters life. A true fighter. A man who was on top of the world but at the same time the bottom. As clear as the passion for fighting is the self hate for having to. The transparency is breathe taking with its unashamed honesty; all while simultaneously soul breaking. The respect I have garnered through hearing his reality of the life of a fighter in this interviewing with Nick. It has changed the way I view this fight game for the rest of my life. God bless you Nick.

[@chrisgary4109]

I love the raw honesty of nick. He’s spilling his guts with no cut cards just being him. That is a man.

[@danielbarbas8978]

What about the raw quitting?

[@realhumanbeing6603]

Daniel Barbas what’s your record in MMA?

[@mmafan8861]

@@danielbarbas8978 daniel barbas go watch canelo fights you typical aIcohoIic paisa. You know nothing about real fighting . Cant blame diaz for quitting though . Off 6 years and a beast in his prime. Real fans know

[@Njliving22]

This is why we love you Nick. In a world of acting and focusing on perfecting your image, you can’t do anything but brutal honesty

[@lorcster6694]

the realest guy around

[@PdronQ]

He says hes taking it like a man, but hes bitchin 20 min straight 😂

[@pablogonzalez5760]

The fact that he feels like many of us on our way to our 8 hr shift is crazy. “Why am I doing this again?”

[@christopherrodriguez9514]

Seriously i feel like he does constantly in my day to day. Def takes a lot to just open up about it, i love how he basically forgot about the cameras.

[@MrRobjs83]

It's gotta be on a whole other level of that feeling as a pro fighter. I can only imagine

[@ted__ryan]

@@MrRobjs83 And they gave CM Punk the main event fight?😂

[@alejandromatute4412]

I make 11hrs man hahahaha

[@smackbarm_peywet6533]

@@christopherrodriguez9514 bro id love an 8 hour shift

[@ElDiabloBlanquecino]

I feel him, I’ve always dealt with that same indescribable anxiety, much respect for him finding the strength to even do this interview.

[@mmsibi]

Same

[@reygordo]

He hates the "game" he's a warrior not a point fighter. Probably the most genuine person in the sport

[@irunit2321]

Warriors dont quit

[@Donny34738]

@@irunit2321 when you’ve fought in strike force and dominated every fight and weren’t in a single dam boring fight you can quit whenever you want because you’ve earned ur respect now show some

[@irunit2321]

@@Donny34738 dont be mad at me for being honest i like the diaz bros but to watch him quit like that was shameful something a true warrior would never do like i said i dont understand how u took that as disrespect

[@JackhammerPossessor]

hes got demons like me

[@irunit2321]

@@JackhammerPossessor demons lose against god

[@joshuad748]

"took harder punches watching that fight than any sparring" wow that is a quote

[@danielstaystrong]

Not to the same level of course but anyone whos had a brother and see him in a fight knows that feeling

[@2869may]

"That's my little brother... my baby brother...!"

[@ayo30s]

No Doubt, 👊🏾🦁🦁🇳🇬🇺🇸

[@johnieweathers6735]

@@danielstaystrong especially when your the older brother

[@pabloramos420]

@@ayo30s 💯💯👌🇲🇽🤟

[@leetheflea4096]

This honestly made me feel guilty for wanting Nick to come back as much as I did. Man I hope he knows his fans will always root for him even if he never fights again after this. He was gone for five years and we were here. Good luck Nick.

[@andym7333]

hesaid it he should of got kumariu

[@Swapnil638]

Brett made him comfortable, there couldn't be a better option for an interviewer here

[@lennartweik18]

Imagine ariel interviewing him 😂

[@addyfilm]

Yes, there could be.

[@shapefoster9920]

This is hard to watch. Hope he wins, he's a legend in the sport. More so, hope he's healthy and happy moving forward.

[@patl2405]

This was so painful, not going to have the same view watching the fight... jesus christ, he's broken.

[@theeternalnow6506]

Yeah, this feels like a tragedy. Much respect for him being so open about this, but it feels like this man shouldn't be in the ring anymore. I hope he'll be okay.

[@bobfromsales9036]

Is this drugs or CTE that we're seeing? This guy's mind is completely ravaged.

[@T2revell]

And listening to him talk and saying how he hates all of this process it makes me legitimately wonder if this man knows how extremely beloved he is across the world

[@Point_n_Shoot]

How would that make it any different? Fighters know and have opinions on the fight game, beloved or not.

[@SNFXVlogs]

I don’t think he does, maybe after the fight he will realise how many people support him, but he’s just been in the UFC to fight, nothing more and nothing less. He’s always hated interviews because of how he’s uncomfortable on camera most times.

[@atom-bomboriginal6387]

Doesn't matter how beloved you are if you can't even be happy for yourself. Same thing happened to Robin Williams

[@TreyParker318]

@@atom-bomboriginal6387 true. it shows you can have so many ppl love you and still not be happy. Nick still has same mentality that Everyone is out to get him. Everyone screws him over like no one likes him. Thats just his mindset. One min he says one thing the next he contradicts what he just said. Hes always complaining. I Love watchin him fight but think he needs to find something else to be happy maybe idk.

[@cahassassin2222]

@@TreyParker318 He should start with laying off the weed

[@806rebelracingwesttexas8]

Man it’s hard to watch Nick talk and pour his heart out you get the feeling everyone always wants something from him, Nick is a genuine person and wears his heart on his sleeve that’s what I love about him and Nate. I wish the best for Nick I hope he finds his way!

[@travisbaker2592]

Tbh he’s kind is a crybaby.. he said he should be fighting Usman… no? How tf has he earned a Usman fight? Plus Usmans jab will smash Diaz .. both Diaz bros

[@eduardosalamanca6076]

@@travisbaker2592 that’s just how he his he said he’d beat gsp when he was a contender in strikforce

[@drestarman]

@@eduardosalamanca6076 he actually ended up not doing to bad against gsp. He was getting him with his boxing, but then just taken to the ground and outmatched whilst gsp was on top. Even though gsp dominated on the cards he had no path to finishing him, and even admitted it’s the most tired he ever got in a fight.

[@NicolaMaxwell]

Amen to that Sir.

[@NicolaMaxwell]

@@travisbaker2592 His honesty about anxiety upsets you?

[@neil9383]

"I like to say I love everyone and everything but then I realize that that's... not that's not... I don't." Love this line!

[@brenthey8242]

This was one of the more fascinating interviews I’ve seen.. Much respect for Nick for his blunt honesty

[@DeezNutz617]

Bread Okamoto sounding more like a therapist than an interviewer

[@champchamp8297]

I mean to be honest, Nick kind of gets that part out of you. He seems to be struggling a lot.

[@seansfeedandsneed]

Exactly what I was thinking

[@ChampionJockey_James]

Literally

[@alexreynolds748]

Brett ruined this interview

[@SergiuNw]

He's a great interviewer.

[@BigPlaysOnly]

I met nick 2 years ago.. Said “what’s up nick!” As I was just starstruck.. he dapped me up, and was super nice. Rooting for him! You’re a real one champ 🥊💪

[@travisk4466]

Real talk

[@armandogarci2502]

Me too

[@alejandropadilla8209]

My boy told me when he met Nick, he felt like he made a new friend. Dude was super cool very humble

[@nicksmith4828]

I'll never wash this hand again 😂 badass

[@pinocchiosrevenge746]

Same here, walked out of the bathroom of a club in Sacramento and Nick was against the wall, just chilling. We took pictures, he talk to me about, Woodley and TJ. He's hella cool.

[@KAMIIKAZEExx]

My favourite interview I’ve probably ever watched. So real, so honest. I love the Diaz brothers. Such a great, down to earth guy. I feel bad about last night, and this is honestly kind of sad :( Much love and respect ♥️

[@SCH0K0S0SSE]

Wow this is so intense. I can feel his pain and it hurts seen a hero having a mental struggle with his decisions.

[@jking8025]

I’ve never seen a fighter be so genuine and honest about how they’re feeling. That was awesome and I really hope Nick wins!

[@rudyallen4]

Brother that’s not honesty. That’s a neurological degenerative disorder probably due to trauma and massive amounts of weed. Him wanting to fight Usman after a 6 year lay off? Cmon. That’s not being genuine, that’s delusional

[@rudyallen4]

Not being disrespectful either

[@jking8025]

@@rudyallen4 Well that’s clearly not the part I was talking about chief. Obviously I meant the part where he’s talking about how nervous he is and always has been before his fights.

[@rudyallen4]

@@jking8025 fair enough and I agree 👍

[@rinoferraro2126]

this guy seems like he’s battling something else which is a lot tougher then his upcoming fight. stay strong kid!!

[@gypsykiing2013]

He’s battling stupid questions in these interviews too

[@johnsurf509]

I can see that in this interview!

[@davidwright326]

He's taking on the full ufc by coming back he's saying f the money Grace's guy made this sport that's what this whole things about this is y he's so deep

[@growbro4490]

He definitely has CTE poor dude

[@erikjohansson2196]

@@gypsykiing2013 really stupid questions, Brett is an amateur

[@Cripkeeper0]

This guy was my favorite fighter when I first started watching MMA back when I was a kid, and is still my favorite fighter at 25. So much respect to how genuine this dude is, he epitomizes a true fighter.

[@lloydmoyer15]

I cant tell you how many times I have watched this interview. It's such a great interview. Missed you Nick!

[@MAK-5891]

It's intense and hard to watch, he is like talking from the heart and getting into your soul, gotta love these boys.

[@Thawhid]

Fr bro. He's a warrior

[@MrEmman12]

I love Robbie, but the world needs to see Nick get his hands raised on Saturday.

[@markydan1232]

I love nick but I don’t see him winning that fight. 5 years out of competition is a death sentence to almost any athlete, and sadly I don’t think Nick is Sugar Ray Leonard. I got Robbie by UD.

[@dannyholder2254]

@@markydan1232 I'm hoping Robbie does win. I really do.

[@fabrygass2203]

@Adolfthejewbaka _ who got knocked out??

[@ksedillo2233]

@Adolfthejewbaka _ I agree, I hope this doesn't look like chuck vs tito 3. Chuck looked way passed his prime. I am getting that from nick, I wish him the best.

[@brentsims9114]

@Adolfthejewbaka _ you mean the Ko that's 2 years old and was filmed years prior?

[@13Hangfire]

You gotta LOVE the Diaz brothers for always being honest and telling it the way it is! Great interview and thanks to Nick for sharing!

[@chrysesmenefee9841]

He is so humble in this interview. All week before the fight, he was so different than he was 6 yrs ago going into a fight. I have always loved the Diaz brothers. Nick has grown up in the last 6 yrs and is really doing a lot of self reflection. He's a good man and very honest. Gives me a tear in my eyes to hear him in this interview. He's so good. Nick you are a legend and will always be one of the best. Love you.

[@notaburner5002]

he unironically said he’d beat Kamarudeen

[@Image-X]

“Nick, why do you fight?” “I don’t know. I don’t want to look back and wonder why I didn’t do it.” Nick is the man!

[@MBsr5]

Yet he didn’t do it for years even when suspended was reduced years ago. He’s a walking contradiction

[@albinomallea334]

Man the only thing i really wanted to hear from him

[@MBsr5]

@@albinomallea334 after this fight you won’t see Nick for 3 years. And I’m a fan since early 2000s

[@MBsr5]

@Cheese Cake you liked your own comment and I’m the fool? Every fighter has a life outside fighting. Nick just isn’t mentally consistent for many years with it.

[@MBsr5]

@Cheese Cake what life outside fighting and making his money with his stardom high? He has no wife no kids he spent 2019 living on Instagram drinking and partying in Vegas. Don’t make excuses

[@Gerhard464]

The most honest answer from a real fighter in his heart " I tried to get away from fighting, but I cant"

[@Marfmellow88]

It makes me sad that he feels that he isn't good at anything else....

[@101sounder]

Tortured soul. Fascinating interview

[@aleksc4376]

Man this has to be the realest interview I ever seen/heard. What a man, much respect.

[@holydiver19]

This felt like a therapy session. I love Nick because I can feel every word he said, I feel the same pain he feels with not being able to express himself properly or how society says we should.

[@Hamigal]

Honest Real and Humble

[@We_Are_Connected]

@@Hamigal facts. He’s so true to himself, that he doesn’t care what people think about him. The best sort of people are the ones that be them-self

[@ericbertilsson6794]

It’s funny because I feel like I understand him perfectly even though he’s not very articulate. Better than many people who do express themselves “properly” and elaborate. You can just feel Nick’s humbleness, I really admire that

[@chapchappington2475]

Lol comparing yourself to Nick Diaz.

[@hasanahmed4700]

Dis is not a terapy session

[@meanstreetmma78]

What we see here is someone who is like you and I , he feels, he hurts, and he lives, we all have shared the exact same pain, others just try to hide it, where Nick is just being like us , REAL! Love Ya Bro!!

[@Rangerfan11]

100%.

[@DT_123]

Love u Nick. We all love u bro

[@billycawood5662]

Seemed to be he’s not in a good spot in he’s life so now he’s coming back to see if this will make him happy

[@montuviog1111]

Nick Diaz is my idol

[@olliefoxx7165]

@@billycawood5662 I think you're right. He's looking for answers and thinks he might find it if he's doing what got him here.

[@superselfversion]

"I gave to everyone else when I shouldve been giving to myself". Nick is so real and so relatable. I hope he wins, doesn't take too much damage, and hope his own coaching and school works out well for him. Diaz brothers ftw (for the win).

[@berniemac4422]

Nick is a good dude

[@TrevorBroadstock]

The most honest mma interview I've ever seen. Love this guys career, I really hope he does well

[@reallycoolguy121]

Every other sentence out of his mouth is contradictory. Dude's brain is messed up. Sad to see. He shouldn't be fighting. He doesn't like it but he also feels entitled but also he should be fighting Usman. Dude hasn't won a fight in literally 10 fricking years. TEN YEARS.

[@cademoreau941]

Love you

[@lennaymaboyyy4848]

@@reallycoolguy121 GSP himself said he hated fighting and dreaded it every time, yet he’s arguably the greatest martial artist ever

[@leandroantelo7154]

@@reallycoolguy121 true, can't understand the guy. Says he doesn't like to fight and all of that but at the same time says he should be fighting the champion... if this is what people see as badass or original i think they too blind

[@reallycoolguy121]

@@lennaymaboyyy4848 GSP said he hated fight day. He didn't act like he's the world's biggest victim and he could string a coherent, consistent sentiment and he never felt entitled while going a decade without a victory and not fighting for 6 years. You cannot compare Nick and GSP unless you're a moron.

[@bedtimemma]

"I feel good" "What does it mean to feel good" "I feel ready to fight" "What does it mean to be ready to fight?" what kinda questions are these bro

[@dmgmav]

Okamoto is the worst interviewer in sports

[@abtwopoint0]

And to think he has a note with these questions prepared

[@hemadkhoja3427]

😂😂😂😂😂 Lmao

[@CharlesGrinbaum]

Hands down that was the most honest and insightful celebrity interview I’ve ever witnessed.

[@ipsizm9265]

Brett Okamoto is a humble, kind dude in a very difficult interview spot. Good job.

[@marioceja5688]

Very honest man to admit he still doesn’t know what to do with his life. Yet everyone expects us to have everything together.

[@geriatricpimp7835]

He knows what he wants, it's what he lacks to get it, like accounting knowledge, business knowledge, etc, he just wishes people give you what they say they will and would quit exploiting those who don't know anything, for everything they are worth. That's what he regrets, not learning thing else but fighting. Because now he is having trouble navigating the convoluted world of greedy wolves in sheep's clothing....greedy rich people are the real wolves....the fighters in this game are the jesters of a different time....expendable and underappreciated.

[@213kilacali]

I could relate to that quote the most.

[@arielhernandez8765]

Sucks that they screwed him over with the school. I think if he had found some honest business partners to run the school with, he would have been in a better place today

[@neutronstatemma1338]

"Pension for Fighters". Nick just broke my heart with his honesty & rawness. For us fans...these fights are entertainment & soon we get on with other things in life. Its them, the fighters that has to live through the repercussion of these brutal fights & the struggles of life. They need pensions. Edit : I’m not asking the UFC to pay anything extra. It will be good if they do. But My suggestion is this: 1) Cut 30% off all earrings from fighters & put that in their fund. 2) Release that amount 5 years after fighters official retirement. 3) Release it on a monthly basis. 4) Let a bank handle it. So Even if UFC goes kaput, the bank can guaranty returns. Let’s not expect a man/women fighter in early 20s getting paid overnight & locked in a contract to make sound decisions. Few will do, most won’t.

[@kenisaac3851]

Heartbreaking 💔 man

[@ottoskorzeny577]

They can invest in 401k like the rest of us. I love Nick but he lost out on millions

[@furhadnasserjah123]

Its what they signed up for.

[@litttdripp7492]

Big facts and make them split the revenue 60 40 at least it should be 50/50 tho

[@neutronstatemma1338]

@@ottoskorzeny577 95% of them won’t. They get hit, break bones, head trauma. Without proper healing, recovery & guidance it’s very hard to take good decisions. Cut 25% off every earning, release it monthly, 5 years after the retirement. Something like that.

[@jessejames5173]

I have so much respect for this man. you can hear the raw emotion in this man's voice. I feel like he is fighting because he is down and out it is clear he doesn't wanna fight anymore

[@ctc16]

Man I hope he can find his own happiness some day. Nicks a genuine dude and I hope he can find peace some day.

[@grandmasterchooda9385]

It hurt my heart to hear Nick so real in this interview, really shows the mind of a fighter who knows he’s great but hates to do what he’s best at. Sometimes the only way a warrior can find the answers is in the battle

[@ulfurk]

The honesty and authenticity of this man is admirable.

[@lodhi8972]

I feel Nick 100%. I understand his feelings, maybe not as a UFC Fighter…but in general. I feel like I’m watching myself finally come out with how I feel about things because I never do. So I feel for him big time. I feel like he feels like his life has been a waste and he hasn’t had a purpose, etc. Praying for you big homie, much love

[@Totem9519]

I wish he knew and felt how thousands of MMA fans feel about him. A lot of his answers and feelings make me sad...

[@colinatherton9081]

This has to be the most honest, genuine and introspective interview you’ll see from any fighter. I just genuinely hope he’s in a good place. I can’t wait to watch the fight.

[@Dark_548]

You took the words right out of my mouth

[@briankelly7978]

Haha he’s not in a good place and you definitely make it deeper than it is

[@Hello-ig1px]

more the most cringe interview ever. i am millionaire and my life is so hard.!

[@joeblackjackal6288]

Can't say I've ever heard someone speak from the heart like he just did!! That's why we Love you Nick!!!!!

[@NicolaMaxwell]

Absolutely absolute legend it's a shame, anxiety sucks.

[@jerryduncan8832]

Best sports interview of all time. So honest. Nick is truly a great example of what defines a "solid man".

[@CometdownCat]

The most real interview with this guy ever, mad respect for nick for putting it all out there, and also for the clear progress he's made when it comes to doing social things like this.

[@bak1necWWE]

Tony Ferguson is the type of guy to ask the referee if he's ready.

[@erickpoint0]

Even In videos where tony isn't involved people still bring him up lmao These jokes are gold 🤣

[@luis.luismontoya]

Lmao

[@danielocean1089]

Hahahaha! TOTALLY

[@tl8863]

@@erickpoint0 It's even funnier on videos that aren't even related to Tony because it sounds like something a Tony fan would do lol

[@Phlayr]

Lmao

[@wshih1]

I've had the pleasure of meeting Nick in person and he's nothing like he is in these interviews at all. Super nice and humble and talks like a normal dude. All the cameras and stuff in your face probably messes with him. Can't wait to see this fight Saturday!

[@viceversa7562]

You met Ali of MMA

[@joelm6631]

Dude got no medicine in him... Until they come up w something better..Guys like him and Tyson use the weed for equilibrium....

[@lolade_akinola]

There was a time when Aldo and McGregor fought, and Nick wanted to go and slap the winner and potentially get a huge fight, I think Nick wanted the McGregor fight, but Nate was planning for Micheal Johnson and He told Nick not to do that because he had McGregor in his sights. They know the right opponents for each other and unfortunalty only one can get the opponent

[@alexreynolds748]

Probably because he has anxiety

[@roohitlal7087]

You sound like he comes off really rude here. He really doesn’t, just answering questions. Come off as authentic to me.

[@whisy012]

Love he expresses himself so honestly! Seems such a great dude!

[@silenceisgoldn]

I really hope he doesnt need the money because as much as everyone loves watching him fight, after tuning into this, he may need to walk away. He really seems to not have the heart for this sport, maybe he never did. Initially, I was psyched for that fight last night but now after watching this, I do not feel good about it. And he did get hurt last night. He's a huge fan fave, but I think we need to let him go. He was so honest in this interview. This was one of the best interviews i have seen. I love this guy even more. Tough and supremely revealing interview.

[@ronj4727]

They ALL need the money !

[@crusader8725]

Brett done a really good job here, I thought he was in trouble at the start and I was wondering how he got 20mins out of Diaz, but he let him talk and asked good questions to get Nick to continue talking. real talk from Nick, gotta respect the man, HOF

[@itguygmailaccount2133]

Brett is incredible at his job. This could have gone off the rails very easily.

[@Muhteo]

@@itguygmailaccount2133 yea incredible at putting me to sleep everytime i hear him

[@Bulskee]

I couldn’t disagree more. He asked dead questions that won’t get a great response form an introvert like Nick. I’ll watch this again when I’m finding it hard to sleep

[@REDANDSILVER741]

@@Muhteo You and the rest of the sheep like saying this. Brett is well articulate and doesn’t put a fake persona like Schmo. He lets the guys talk and ask very simple and effective questions.

[@BH-nq5xy]

Okamoto is not a good reporter just like half the other mma media guys!!

[@calvinhu8214]

"I don't like this but it's what i do." A more pure fighter has never existed.

[@whoknows8436]

He does seem like a genuinely pure person but at the same time bro there are fighters who genuinely love what they do

[@abruhigoham7472]

@@whoknows8436 he kinda seems punch drunk to me, maybe i haven’t watched enough interviews of him, but he’s rambling like crazy. Interviewer sucks tho so it might not be purely his fault.

[@marklower007]

Chuck loved every sec of it. I'd say he qualifies

[@lindsay1971]

I get the chills whenever I see this interview. The fighters deserve better.

[@stevewallis7274]

Love to see him speaking clearly and looking well. By far the best interview of any mma fighter I’ve seen.

[@GD22xl18]

We don’t deserve Nick. He’s fighting for us ✊

[@sam9671]

1000%

[@steventhome9396]

👊

[@Hamigal]

I think he needs it.....

[@vincentmontgomery9770]

He’s fighting for our sins

[@MegaMateo]

listening to Nick when he's honest is just so great

[@ajroig4901]

Show me one nick lie

[@jordang5283]

@@ajroig4901 this comment is unoriginal

[@stephanierobertson8395]

@@jordang5283 Did u have something to say about the original comment or just playing comment police?

[@adamotto22]

Nick and Nate are as real as they come my guy 💯

[@artofmartialcinemaamc5334]

@@stephanierobertson8395 Sounds like that's what you're doing. He doesn't have to respond to the OC. He's right, the comment is unoriginal. That doesn't make him superior, nor does it take away from the comment being true. Nick is as real as it gets, and Nate

[@djf33584]

This was a modified therapy session for Nick. There is a lot to unpack, and I have the upmost respect for him just being completely honest in his answers and emotions. I almost feel like a lot of what people don't understand about Nick would make more sense if they had access to interviews like this. If you look at old interviews with him, its like he didn't get the right follow-on questions or space to express himself. Hat's off to Brett for making it a great interview. A lot of people would have jacked it up to where Nick wouldn't have been able to speak the way he did.

[@johnwick49734]

This man and his brother deserve to find inner peace in their life

[@BenG63879]

Brett: Looking forward to the fight and I wish you the very best. Diaz: "Ok."

[@travisbaker2592]

Brett is a terrible person to interview Nick, Jon Anik should be doing this.

[@zapatavive1801]

@@travisbaker2592 what's so great about that company worm

[@jaywood1698]

The fact that this is #3 on trending on KZbin as a whole speaks volumes about Nick and the UFC

[@letsgooo8923]

How you know its #3

[@miguelpina96]

@@letsgooo8923 #9 now. On mobile it shows it up by the title. I'm assuming it does too for pc.

[@Umtree]

This will go down as one of the greatest interviews of a fighter of all time. Hoping you find peace my friend.

[@AmericanKnight]

Just a legit badass! It’s been such a privilege to live this era watching him.

[@m3gad4n67]

Lmao you can tell when Nick gets comfortable during an interview, he starts to talk more

[@saulohernandez9655]

I agree brother

[@JamesKonrad]

yeah there is a few interviews out there where you can tell hes comfortable

[@juliozamudio7124]

Okamoto has become one of the best interviewers in mma

[@geebabyt1221]

I mean.. kind of human nature right? Lol

[@lukejax1407]

@@geebabyt1221 yeah haha. Nothing new

[@BigNugget521]

I had no idea at all nick was this honest and carries a burden on his shoulder, refreshingly spoken

[@tjp_real]

Than you don't know the Diaz brothers.

[@midwest2374]

A burden of what though? I don't understand. And he says the sport never gave him back what he put in it but what is there to expect from a sport other than money? Which is something he could be making a ridiculously huge amount of if he came into this thing and did it the right way. Im the biggest nick Diaz fan ever so don't think I'm not, I just do not understand like not even a little bit.

[@ToTheNines87368]

Nick has always had a chip of some sort on his shoulder, it’s nothing new.

[@Jeremy-jw7qb]

I think his first who he loved girlfriend killed herself by standing in front of oncoming traffic on a highway

[@midwest2374]

@@Jeremy-jw7qb but what did that have to do with fighting? Nothing

[@chrisamarachi9365]

It is not easy to interview this genuine and genius guy , so honest person , why people can't love him , and he love his brother so much, and have given so much in the campany, never get anything back , who deserves the best

[@philrisser6853]

you were so real in this interview. nick is so candid

[@NelsonQuestESP]

So much love and respect for Nick. Love hearing him speak when he's comfortable. Honest and authentic are two very different things and he's uniquely both.

[@sassysteve6700]

Unprofessional asking to change weight unfair for lawler

[@ChildishGambeaner]

@@sassysteve6700 absolutely

[@o0GrayMatters0o]

Nick has mastered both fighting, and the art of fighting without fighting. He's a fighter for truth and honor. REAL Honor, like trust or respect, cannot be bought or sold, only earned. His legacy is like that of a Samurai Ronin (master-less) that refused to kill himself to retain his honor (in the eyes of his society) after losing in battle, but gains his honor and solidifies his legacy as a fighter to the death, against all odds and opposition. I really hope he wins this fight. “Truth always rests with the minority, and the minority is always stronger than the majority, because the minority is generally formed by those who really have an opinion, while the strength of a majority is illusory, formed by the gangs who have no opinion - and who, therefore, in the next instant (when it is evident that the minority is the stronger) assume its opinion… while truth again reverts to a new minority.”― Soren Kierkegaard

[@EKleKtiKSound]

So u like hearing people like Walter JR from breaking bad speak?

[@alanw5190]

@@sassysteve6700 yeah that is a little weird but for the most part he is a really humble dude and he does have true respect,

[@JensenParkour]

Honestly, kudos to Brett for allowing Nick to freely flow here. I think Brett had a script he was following and I noticed him fold it in half and stop looking at it halfway through

[@anasibndawood6696]

Alhamdulilah, times over , let them be

[@lionelkutz6838]

This is the first time I've enjoyed a Brett Okamoto interview, and I think it's because of that exactly.

[@kennethmortensen8159]

If you dont do that then you know that he had already left the building

[@elidyson256]

yup they always read the script including everyone, TRUST ME! Look at their eyes and constant focus

[@jaimesandoval5774]

He’s not he just remember it

[@sachet.thapa542]

The most genuine interview I've watch. I hope some good happens to Nick 🙌

[@TheCarlScharnberg]

Very raw and honest interview. Which is why I respect him, and his brother. They are real. Sad to see what he struggles with. Wish him happiness.