Ariel Helwani Shuts Down Nate Diaz and Bellator Conversations
Ariel Helwani has stated on Twitter that any negotiation claims between Nate Diaz and Bellator are false and illegal.
“He hasn’t talked to anyone,” wrote Helwani.
This comes with the news that Diaz has a three-month negotiation clause in his contract for the UFC. Helwani claims this is “standard procedure”. The doors have not completely closed, however. The clause is able to be waived and has been waived before, according to Helwani. For now, however, the door remains locked, and for the next three months, the UFC has the key.
Scott Coker Claims Talks Are Underway
Bellator President Scott Coker earlier confirmed an interest in superstar and newly free agent Nate Diaz. Coker has said that they would open their arms to one of the largest names in the sport, saying that they “are definitely talking to him.”
Speaking prior to Bellator in Dublin, Coker confirmed that he would be happy for Diaz to explore other combat sports. However, he would like “at least his MMA fights to be in Bellator.” Coker is not committing himself just yet, as he understands that Diaz is probably “talking to everybody” anyway. “Everybody“ includes Boxing and YouTube star Jake Paul, with Diaz being open about his interest in fighting the social media star, turned fighter.
A Veteran of the Sport
Future UFC Hall of Famer and MMA veteran Nate Diaz is most famously known for his shocking win over last-minute opponent Conor McGregor at UFC 196 in 2016. He is already one of the big players in the sport, accelerated to fame beyond the circle of Mixed Martial Arts.
At 37 years old the Stockton CA native announced his exit from the UFC after he spoiled lightweight contender Tony Ferguson’s welterweight debut via Guillotine choke at UFC 279. With the name Diaz holds, it would be unsurprising for him to not sign wherever he chooses. Whether this is Bellator, a boxing promotion or any other MMA promotion remains to be seen.
