Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal: Recapping the historic BMF title fight
Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal are undoubtedly two of the biggest superstars in the world of mixed martial arts. The two iconic fighters, who dedicated more than a decade each to the UFC, faced each other for the one-of-a-kind ‘BMF’ title. This article closely examines the BMF title, their epic fight, and their legacy in the UFC.
The BMF Title
In the MMA world, few accolades are as coveted or controversial as the UFC’s BMF (Baddest Motherf***er) title. The symbolic title combines the excitement of spectacle and sport, embodying the boldness, daring, and unwavering fighting spirit that characterizes the UFC.
Interestingly, it was Nate Diaz who is to be credited for conceptualizing the BMF title. Immediately after the Stockton slugger’s win over Anthony Pettis at UF 241, Diaz brashly proclaimed himself the “baddest mother f***er in the game” before calling out Masvidal, who stood cage-side.
While the UFC wasn’t initially interested in making that fight happen, the organization couldn’t ignore that a fight between two superstars like Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal was a guaranteed pay-per-view success. Ultimately, Dana White announced that Masvidal would challenge Diaz’s claims of being the “baddest motherf***er,” and the two would fight each other in a welterweight barnburner.
The Historic Fight
Nate Diaz faced Jorge Masvidal for the BMF title in the headliner of UFC 244 at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City. The main event was considered one of the most exciting fights of the year, and everyone watched closely as the street-fighter-turned-professional Jorge Masvidal and the gritty, never-backing-down brawler, Nate Diaz, locked horns.
Diaz and Masvidal engaged in a war of attrition from the opening bell, showcasing their incredible skills, tenacity, and durability. The Stockton native relied on his high-volume boxing to pressure ‘Gamebred’ but was constantly out-struck by Masvidal’s superior striking accuracy and power.
While Diaz’s legendary durability certainly lived up to its name, a gash that Masvidal’s elbows and knees opened right above the Stockton slugger’s right eye ended the contest just before the fourth round began. Jorge Masvidal defeated Nate Diaz via TKO (doctor’s stoppage) to take home the black and gunmetal-grey BMF belt.
Aftermath and Legacy
While the fans saw the BMF title as a marketing gimmick, no MMA fan could resist indulging in a barnburner involving Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal. While the title fight had a controversial ending, the intense battle between the two MMA superstars became an instant classic that showcased the heart and toughness of both fighters.
Conclusion
The BMF belt is a unique entity in combat sports that was incidentally created by Nate Diaz and later co-opted by the UFC. While the title was merely symbolic, it elevated fighters like Jorge Masvidal and Nate Diaz to new heights of stardom. The two hard-as-nails sluggers continue to be icons of the sport.
