The outcome of the UFC 263 matchup between Nate Diaz and Leon Edwards could have had significant ramifications for both fighters’ careers. Although Edwards emerged victorious by unanimous decision, Diaz’s near-knockout in the final round sparked speculation about what might have happened if he had capitalized on that moment. A different result could have led to a butterfly effect altering the trajectory of their careers.
Had Diaz secured a victory over Edwards, he would likely have earned a welterweight title shot against Kamaru Usman, potentially altering the division. Diaz’s win could have set him on a path toward facing Usman for the championship, offering him the opportunity to make history by becoming an undisputed champion in the UFC. This scenario would have presented Diaz with a significant career milestone and potentially extended his tenure in the promotion.
On the other hand, Edwards’ defeat at the hands of Diaz would have ended his eight-fight winning streak and likely dashed his hopes of challenging for the welterweight title. Without the momentum from his victory over Diaz, Edwards might not have earned the title shot against Usman, leaving Usman as the undisputed king of the division without facing Edwards for the belt.
Following his loss to Edwards, Diaz went on to face Tony Ferguson in the main event of UFC 279, where he secured a fourth-round submission victory.
Despite his loss to Edwards, Diaz announced his decision to temporarily part ways with the UFC to explore other opportunities and test free agency. While a different result against Edwards may not have changed Diaz’s decision to explore other options, it would have undoubtedly given him more to consider about his future in the promotion.
Although Diaz has expressed interest in rejoining the UFC before retiring, he is currently focused on preparing for a 10-round boxing match against Jorge Masvidal, set to take place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, on July 6. As Diaz continues to navigate his career, the outcome of his fight against Edwards at UFC 263 remains a pivotal moment that could have altered the course of his fighting journey.
