UFC 196: Nate Diaz Says “Cardio And Skill” Behind Upset Win
Nate Diaz
By FCF Staff
Nate Diaz rocked the MMA world on Saturday night by taking out Conor McGregor, and the rugged vet says “cardio and skill” were why he ended the latter’s undefeated, UFC run.
Diaz absorbed some heavy blows from McGregor in the opening round at UFC 196, but in round two, he began tagging the featherweight champ. After McGregor attempted to shoot in, it wasn’t long before Diaz had sunk in a fight ending, rear-naked-choke.
After the bout, Diaz had this to say about the victory, while speaking to FOX Sports:
“Cardio and skill. How long have I been in the game? I’ve been fighting 12 years. He’s where he’s at because of the push. I know I’m a better fighter than him. It’s hard to hate. The guy’s doing a good job. That was my 24thfight. There’s no experience like that. It’s a long road and I’m still going strong. I’ll say I’m done with this fight game, but in four months, I’ll be bored and will want to fight again. I’m in this game.”
McGregor had won 15 straight heading into the bout and while doing so, became one of the biggest stars in combat sports. Diaz, meanwhile, was coming off a UD win over Michael Johnson, after he was decisioned by lightweight champ Rafael dos Anjos in 2014.
