Sports
Nick Diaz Withdraws from UFC 310 Fight Against Vicente Luque
Nick Diaz, the veteran MMA fighter, has withdrawn from his highly anticipated fight against Vicente Luque at UFC 310, scheduled for December 7 in Las Vegas. This news was first reported by MMA journalist Alex Behunin on Twitter, stating that Themba Gorimbo will step in to face Luque instead[2][3].
The reason for Diaz’s withdrawal has not been officially disclosed, but recent incidents have raised concerns about his well-being. A viral video showed Diaz shirtless in public, attempting to ignite a piece of grass, with a concerned voice in the background. Additionally, his ex-girlfriend posted an Instagram story hinting at his struggles with addiction[1][2].
Diaz, known for his advocacy of marijuana use, has faced significant challenges in his career, including a five-year suspension from the Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) for multiple positive tests for marijuana. His last fight was in September 2021 at UFC 266, where he suffered a technical knockout loss to Robbie Lawler[1][3].
Themba Gorimbo, who replaces Diaz, is on a four-fight winning streak and boasts a professional record of 14-4. Gorimbo had previously expressed interest in filling in for Diaz should he be unable to compete[3].
This change is part of several significant adjustments to the UFC 310 lineup, including the main event, which will now feature a flyweight championship bout between Alexandre Pantoja and Kai Asakura. The event has also seen UFC Welterweight Champion Belal Muhammad withdraw due to a toe infection, leading to Shavkat Rakhmonov facing Ian Garry instead[3].