‘I’m not a thug … I’m just a BJJ master’

UFC lightweight competitor Nate Diaz has experienced a storied career in mixed martial arts. Most recently, the fighter has gone on to rival the lightweight champion Conor “Notorious” McGregor.

Having defeated “Notorious” at UFC 196 with a rear-naked choke, Nate Diaz went on to face the champion at UFC 202. This time, McGregor walked home with a majority decision victory. Now, the fighters stand 1-1 against each other.

As a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt with a highlight reel of submission finishes within the Ultimate Fighting Championship, Nate Diaz has formed a reputation for his ground game. In a recent interview, Nate Diaz decided to give a little insight on his presence in the octagon.

In the interview, as seen below, Diaz responded to a statement that he is not a thug, but rather a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu master. “That’s just the way you should fight, I believe.” Diaz said, “I got into fights and I saw the ‘swag,’ if you will. The guy is playing his role.”

Nate Diaz explained that there is a psychology to your fighting presence, “That’s just how it’s done, just like how an armbar is done.” For the full interview, see the video below.