As Leon Edwards prepares for the third defense of his UFC welterweight title this Sunday at UFC 304, his trainer Dave Lovell has made harsh comments about Nate Diaz’s recent call. Diaz, who recently scored a narrow split-decision victory in a boxing match against Jorge Masvidal, has hinted at the possibility of a UFC return with Edwards aiming for a rematch, but Lovell isn’t keen on the idea . . . .
Nate Diaz’s Recent Activities
Nate Diaz’s fight against Masvidal on July 6 was a highlight event, earning both fighters big bucks. Despite Diaz’s recent boxing success, he hinted that Edwards would return to the UFC for the welterweight title. This potential rematch would be a sequel to their first meeting at UFC 263, where Edwards won by unanimous decision but met a dramatic end in the final round when it barely fell short bi and Diaz pulled the comeback
Lovell’s Difficult Speech
Dave Lovell has firmly rejected Diaz’s call. In an interview with Submission Radio, Lovell called Diaz’s challenge a “Mickey Mouse job” and suggested that Diaz should consider retiring from the game. “Leon hasn’t got time for that Mickey Mouse business right now,” Lovell said, adding that while Diaz’s financial success is admirable, his continued involvement in combat sports could be detrimental to his health which is long-lasting
Lovell expressed concern for Diaz’s welfare and noted the toll repeated corporal punishment can take on fighters. “He’s taken a little too much punishment right now. I know it was just wrestling with George, but it still took its toll on him,” Lovell explained. He thinks Diaz needs to fight for a better future outside of the game and focus on his life.
The Economic Incentives Driving Diaz’s Decisions
Lovell acknowledged that financial incentives played a large role in Diaz’s decision to continue fighting. Diaz reportedly earned a seven-figure income from his boxing career with Masvidal, Diaz is currently in a legal dispute with promoter Fanmio, who claims he is owed an additional $9 million in “cash negotiations”. Lovell noted, pointing out that large purses are clearly a key factor in keeping Diaz in the game. “It’s just a money-based thing,” he added, stressing that Diaz and Masvidal may be continuing to fight for the job more out of economic necessity than competitive aspirations.
Leon Edwards’ Future in the UFC
Looking ahead, Lovell also talked about Edwards’ potential to move up to the middleweight division. Now focused on defending his welterweight title, Edwards has previously spoken of his ambitions to become a two-division champion. Lovell expressed hope that, should Edwards move up to middleweight, his friend Israel Adesanya would not be the reigning champion at that time. “I don’t want Leon to fight Israel because we’re all that close,” Lovell said, referring to the personal connections in the game.
Possible Career Paths
Lovell suggested that Adesanya is nearing the end of his fighting career and suggested that a successful title defense against Dricus du Plessis could be a fitting end to Adesanya’s career “Israel is my brother, but I think he is coming to the twilight of his career now ,” Lovell commented , suggesting Adesanya should consider retiring after another win.
While Leon Edwards gets ready for UFC 304, his coach Dave Lovell’s answer to Nate Diaz’s criticism underscores the ongoing discussions in the sport over the health of fighters, the length of their careers, and financial incentives. The welterweight and middleweight classes in the UFC continue to be exciting and dynamic due to Edwards’ attention on defending his championship and possible future matches.
