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Nate Diaz Steps Up To Fight McGregor

Wednesday, 24 February 2016 07:21

Conor McGregor has a new opponent.

Rafael dos Anjos was forced to withdraw from their UFC 196 lightweight title bout yesterday after suffering a foot injury.

However the UFC have reacted quickly, and now Stockton's finest, Nate Diaz (18-10), will step up to face the Notorious (21-2).

The pair will meet at welterweight, which means a far less severe weight cut for both men than if they fought at 155lbs. 

UFC president Dana White made the announcement on Sportscenter overnight.

It's the fourth time in McGregor's eight UFC fights that his original opponent has changed.

The always popular Diaz is coming off the back of a decision win over Michael Johnson in December, almost a year to the day after being beaten by dos Anjos.

When the news broke of the Brazilian's withdrawal yesterday, Diaz was quick to react on Twitter, taunting McGregor.

There's been no social media response from McGregor about the situation as of yet.

One thing's for sure - we can't wait for the press conference fireworks between them.

dos Anjos meanwhile apologised to fans on Twitter.

UFC 196 - McGregor v Diaz, takes place at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on March 5th.

McGregor meanwhile has confirmed he's to be on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

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