After his massive victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 196, Nate Diaz gained mainstream recognition. All of a sudden, the Stockton native has been more visible in various interviews and even entertainment talk shows.
Recently, he spoke to FOX Sports host Jason Whitlock, where he addressed McGregor’s celebrity status, whom as of late, has been rubbing elbows with more notable figures. Recently, the Irishman was seen with football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and Jennifer Lopez.
"That’s what the UFC did. They pushed his fan base, put all the energy and exposure on him," Diaz said.
For Diaz, however, having the recognition from such revered figures is actually a compliment to them as fighters and the hard work they have been putting in.
"They (celebrities) should be hanging out with him (McGregor)," Diaz said. "He’s fighting in a cage, in front of the world, in front of a lot of people. It’s cool he is representing for the people who are putting in a lot on the line."
"There’s a lot of good coming from fighting. You fight, you win, you do good, everybody loves you. And then you get in there and fight, you lose, and get your head kicked in, and besides it hurting, you get laughed at and people make fun of you, too. So that’s a lot to put on the line."
"So it’s cool when big stars and big people come and appreciate that, so he’s doing a good job with what he’s doing."
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