Nate Diaz has officially thrown his hat in the ring for the UFC’s White House card and has a few opponents in mind for the event.
In an interview with TMZ Sports, the 40-year-old Stockton fighter made it clear that he is done with the exhibition circuit and wants to return to “real action” on the sport’s biggest stage. Diaz specifically outlined a three-man hit list for the historic June 14, 2026, event, targeting old rivals and fresh faces alike as he looks to secure a spot on the South Lawn.
“I’m ready to get back in real action,” Diaz told TMZ Sports. “I want to fight either (Conor) McGregor, maybe Dustin Poirier if he stops being such a p*ssy, and maybe Mike Perry.”
The callout of Poirier is particularly stinging, reigniting a feud that has simmered for years without ever materializing in the cage. Poirier, who retired in July 2025 following a loss to Max Holloway, has recently teased a comeback, and Diaz’s challenge might be the spark needed to finally make the fight happen.
Meanwhile, the mention of Mike Perry offers a wild card option, as the former BKFC star is currently a free agent looking for a return to mixed martial arts. The backdrop for Diaz’s potential return is the UFC White House event, which is being organized to celebrate both President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Diaz shared enthusiasm for the patriotic spectacle, stating, “Yeah, that’d be dope. America gang, baby. You already know what’s popping.”
The event is expected to feature a limited number of bouts, and Diaz’s proven ability to draw casual eyes makes him a prime candidate for the lineup. Diaz also took a moment to address his former opponent, Jake Paul, who recently suffered a knockout loss to Anthony Joshua. Despite their past rivalry, Diaz offered praise for the YouTuber-turned-boxer, who sustained a double broken jaw in the sixth-round defeat.
“He’s doing a great job,” Diaz said, acknowledging Paul’s willingness to step up against a former heavyweight champion. However, Diaz made it clear that his own focus is shifting back to legitimate MMA competition, noting that he wants a “real fight” for the “right price” rather than another crossover boxing match.
