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UFC Legends Nick Diaz and Tony Ferguson Return for Abu Dhabi Showdown

Nick Diaz and Tony Ferguson are set to return to UFC on ABC 7 in Abu Dhabi on August 3. Diaz will face Vicente Luque, while Ferguson will take on Michael Chiesa.

UFC President Dana White hints at Ferguson’s possible final fight with an exciting lineup featuring Cory Sandhagen vs. Umar Nurmagomedov.

Key Takeaways
  • Nick Diaz and Tony Ferguson will return to the octagon at UFC on ABC 7 in Abu Dhabi on August 3.
  • Diaz will face Vicente Luque in a five-round co-main event, while Ferguson will take on Michael Chiesa.
  • Both fighters aim to break losing streaks and potentially end their careers on a high note.

Diaz and Ferguson: Fan Favorites Return to UFC

On Wednesday morning, UFC CEO Dana White announced the highly anticipated return of legendary fighters Nick Diaz and Tony Ferguson.

Both MMA veterans will step into the octagon once again at UFC on ABC 7, UFC scheduled for August 3 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.

Diaz, known for his resilient fighting style and iconic status in the UFC alongside his brother Nate, will face Vicente Luque in a five-round co-main event.

Ferguson, a fan favorite for his unpredictable and aggressive fighting style, will take on Michael Chiesa in a welterweight bout on the main card.

Diaz vs. Luque: A Clash for Redemption

Nick Diaz, now 40, hasn’t fought since his loss to Robbie Lawler in 2021, which marked his first fight in six years.

Diaz, who hasn’t won a bout since his victory over B.J. Penn in 2011, is eager to end his four-fight losing streak.

His opponent, Vicente Luque, also seeks redemption. He has lost three of his last four fights, his most recent defeat being a TKO loss to Joaquin Buckley in March.

Ferguson vs. Chiesa: Battle for Legacy

Tony Ferguson, another veteran fighter aged 40, is set to fight Michael Chiesa.

Ferguson is on a seven-fight losing streak, with his last bout ending in a unanimous decision loss to Paddy Pimblett in December 2023.

Dana White hinted that this “could be” Ferguson’s final fight, adding to the high stakes of this welterweight clash.

Additional Highlight Fights at UFC on ABC 7

Apart from the headlining bouts featuring Diaz and Ferguson, the UFC on ABC 7 card boasts several other exciting matchups:

  • Cory Sandhagen vs. Umar Nurmagomedov: A bantamweight showdown that promises fireworks as both fighters vie for contender status.
  • Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Marlon Vera: A clash of styles in the flyweight division.
  • Mackenzie Dern vs. Loopy Godinez: A women’s strawweight bout highlighting rising stars.
  • Alonzo Menifield vs. Azamat Murzakanov: A light heavyweight battle with knockout potential.

Nick Diaz’s Potential Future Opponents

Fans and analysts are already speculating about who Nick Diaz might face next if he secures a victory in Abu Dhabi. Here are five potential opponents:

1. Tony Ferguson

If both Diaz and Ferguson lose their respective fights, a matchup between these two veterans could make sense.

They have history, with Ferguson having fought Diaz’s brother Nate at UFC 279. This fight would be a fitting clash between two legendary fighters seeking redemption. Previously, Jake Paul rejected the bout with Ferguson.

2. Conor McGregor

A bout against Conor McGregor, especially if McGregor loses his upcoming fight against Michael Chandler, could generate massive interest.

Diaz and McGregor have a well-documented rivalry, and a fight between them would be a significant draw for the UFC.

3. Colby Covington

Diaz reportedly expressed interest in fighting former interim welterweight champion Colby Covington.

This fight would pit Diaz against one of the most controversial figures in the UFC, offering a classic matchup of fan-favorite versus villain.

4. Kevin Holland

A dynamic and entertaining fighter, Kevin Holland could be another potential opponent for Diaz. Holland’s unpredictable style and Diaz’s veteran experience would make for an exciting fight.

5. Rafael Dos Anjos

Former lightweight champion Rafael Dos Anjos, who recently moved back to welterweight, could also be a suitable opponent.

Dos Anjos has a history with the Diaz family, defeating Nate Diaz in 2015. A fight between Dos Anjos and Nick Diaz would be a nostalgic matchup for longtime fans.

Watch UFC on ABC 7: Diaz, Ferguson, and More in Action

Mark your calendars for August 3 and witness the thrilling returns of Nick Diaz and Tony Ferguson at UFC on ABC 7 in Abu Dhabi.

With a lineup of exciting fights, this event promises unforgettable moments.

Be sure to tune in and support your favorite fighters as they step back into the octagon for another epic night of mixed martial arts action!