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The highly anticipated rematch between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal has undergone a significant shift in its scheduling, moving from June 1 to July 6 and changing venues to the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. This strategic adjustment aims to avoid overlapping with other major combat sports events, particularly UFC 302, ensuring maximum attention for this explosive bout.
Originally slated for June 1 at the Kia Forum in Inglewood, California, the Diaz vs. Masvidal rematch encountered scheduling conflicts with significant events in both MMA and boxing. This prompted the decision to reschedule, a move confirmed by MMA Junkie following a report from Boxing Scene.
The initial June 1 date coincided with UFC 302, a high-profile MMA event featuring a lightweight title showdown between reigning champion Islam Makhachev and former interim titleholder Dustin Poirier at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Simultaneously, in the boxing world, Dmitrii Bivol was set to headline a card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, facing Malik Zinad after Artur Beterbiev's withdrawal due to injury.
The Diaz vs. Masvidal rematch holds immense significance, stemming from their first encounter in the UFC octagon during UFC 244, where they battled for the inaugural BMF title. This time, the stakes are set in the boxing ring, promising fans another thrilling showdown between these seasoned warriors.
The promotional efforts for this rematch have been robust, with Diaz and Masvidal embarking on a rigorous four-city U.S. tour to drum up excitement and anticipation for the bout. Their respective journeys leading to this rematch add layers of intrigue, with Diaz, now 38, having left his UFC contract following a triumphant submission win over Tony Ferguson at UFC 279. His venture into professional boxing against Jake Paul last August marked a bold new chapter in his combat sports career.
Masvidal, 39, remains under UFC contract but has been granted permission to engage in this boxing spectacle against Diaz. His most recent UFC appearance saw him in a hard-fought battle against Gilbert Burns at UFC 287, ending in a unanimous decision loss.
The rescheduling of Diaz vs. Masvidal 2 underscores the careful planning and strategic considerations involved in major combat sports events, ensuring fans can fully immerse themselves in the excitement without conflicting distractions.