Nate Diaz and Leon Edwards are set to face each other in a five-round main event at UFC 263. We have reason to believe that Diaz stands a more than decent chance to beat Edwards.
Edwards has been waiting to step up the welterweight ranks for a long time. His career suffered a major setback when the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, as he was unable to fly for fights. Unfortunately, when he returned to the octagon, his clash with Belal Muhammad ended in a no-contest.
Diaz, on the other hand, is returning to the octagon after a two-year hiatus. He last fought Jorge Masvidal for the ceremonial BMF title at UFC 244 in Las Vegas.
Edwards is a -450 favourite over Diaz, who is a +325 underdog.
However, Diaz could have an upper hand over Edwards given that he is an OG of the game.
Here are three explanations for this:
3) Nate Diaz brings unbelievable work ethic to the table
Though Edwards is a patient and precise striker, Diaz is known for exerting constant pressure on his opponents for as long as it is necessary. This is something we can see in some of Diaz’ previous fights.
Diaz’ aggressive style has the drawback of causing him to run into shots. However, Diaz has shown his ability to take shots when dishing out punishment on many occasions. Furthermore, the time he has spent away from the octagon has aided his recovery from the extensive damage his chin has sustained over the years.
2) Diaz is a beast inside the ring
Diaz’s black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu has given him an advantage on the field throughout his career. He has a unique ability to move from one spot to another in such a way that his opponents are forced to tap.
It’s worth noting that this blends in well with Edwards’ ground style. Though Edwards prefers to stay in control after scoring a takedown, Diaz prefers to twist and turn off his back to perform unintended submissions.
1) Diaz might counteracts Edwards’ reach advantage
In the welterweight division, Edwards is usually heavier and taller than his rivals. As a result, he can keep his distance and avoid most attacks when executing his own.
That will not be the case when he fights the Stockton native inside the octagon. Diaz, in reality, has a two-inch reach advantage over his UFC 263 opponent.
His unconventional, yet incredibly powerful boxing combinations, might be able to place Edwards in a position he has never been in before. After all, it’s all about the experience.
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