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3 Reasons Conor McGregor Needs to Complete the Nate Diaz Trilogy in 2020

By Evan Wolff

Conor McGregor won by split decision against Nate Diaz in their second fight at UFC 202
Conor McGregor won by split decision against Nate Diaz in their second fight at UFC 202 / Steve Marcus/Getty Images

After an extended layoff, the world seems to be Conor McGregor's oyster once again. After his bang-bang victory at UFC 246 over Donald Cerrone inside of one single minute, there are plenty of exciting options available for the Notorious' next fight -- perhaps as soon as UFC 250 in May.

However, with Khabib Nurmagomedov defending the 155-pound title fight in April and Jorge Masvidal growing less confident that McGregor will actually agree to terms for a welterweight clash, who will actually emerge as Conor's next opponent? The name that is gaining more traction appears to be his old nemesis, Nate Diaz, a matchup that would be a major treat for fight fans. Here are three reasons why this triology bout absolutely needs to happen this year.

1. The UFC Would Make a Killing

There's no way around it. Simply put, Conor McGregor sells fights. The strength of his personal brand is the reason he is making insane money in the UFC and beyond, and his last two fights against Diaz were some of the most-purchased pay-per-views in the history of the promotion. A chance to see these two clash for a third and decisive time wouldn't just be a tiebreaker -- it could be a record-breaker.

2. The Best of Enemies

Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor had no love lost for each other at the UFC 202 weigh-in.
Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor had no love lost for each other at the UFC 202 weigh-in. / Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Who could forget Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz throwing water bottles at each other at the UFC 196 press conference? Or Nate Diaz having an unforgettable message to the world after beating Conor by submission? These two are not afraid to say what is exactly on their mind. It's what makes them legends of the sports, and makes them a perfect match for each other inside the Octagon.

3. Both Guys Want the Smoke!

Oftentimes in the UFC, matchmaking is like an obstacle course. From two fighters not agreeing on contract terms, to one of them fighters not being particularly interested in the matchup at all, it's a wonder how many fight cards still end up being reasonably stacked. This is not the case for Diaz-McGregor, however, as both fighters have publicly stated their interest in running it back. Conor did so right after UFC 246, and Nate criticized Conor right back on Twitter. Get on the phone, Dana White!