UFC 266: Nick Diaz vs Robbie Lawler 2- Prediction and Analysis

UFC 266 will see the return of Octagon legend Nick Diaz as he takes on Robbie Lawler in a rematch. The duo previously fought at UFC 47 in 2004 with Diaz claiming a knockout win. However, the Stockton slugger hasn’t competed in over 6-years and will finally end his Octagon hiatus this weekend.

Diaz is a former WEC and Strikeforce welterweight champion. He last fought Anderson Silva at UFC 183. However, despite his absence, the elder Diaz brother remains an iconic figure among UFC faithful for his exceptional scrapping style. He is a fighter and is willing to go to the ground or stand and trade with anybody on the roster.

LAS VEGAS, NV – JANUARY 31: Nick Diaz taunts his opponent in their middleweight bout during the UFC 183 event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on January 31, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

As for Lawler, he is a legend in his own right. The former UFC welterweight champion has been part of some of the most memorable fights in the promotion’s history throughout his career. Lawler is an absolutely vicious knockout artist. But ‘The Ruthless One’ hasn’t won in his last 4 fights.

Diaz has a professional record of 26-9 with 21 finishes. He has 21 knockouts which show the exceptional boxing skills he possesses. And the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu black belt has 8 submission wins on his resume.

Lawler has a record of 28-15 with 21 finishes. A massive 20 knockouts and 1 submission comprise those stats for him.

Nick Diaz vs Robbie Lawler 2: Analysis

Diaz hasn’t fought for almost half a decade. But he trains regularly at the Nick Diaz Academy in Stockton. Also, his triathlon habit helps him stay in shape year-round.

Lawler is currently on a skid. However, his power is still there and he can put anybody to sleep with one shot. So, it’s hard to say what type of fight fans are going to get.

LAS VEGAS, NV – JANUARY 31: Nick Diaz stands in the Octagon after his middleweight bout during the UFC 183 event at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on January 31, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

But considering Diaz‘s granite chin and pressure style, he might be able to pummel Lawler and frustrate him. Diaz might just be able to grind out a decision in his favor in a back-and-forth fight.

Final Prediction: Nick Diaz by decision.

Also Read: UFC 266: Valentina Shevchenko vs Lauren Murphy- Prediction and Analysis

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