5 hard-hitting predictions for Nick Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler 2 at UFC 266

#2. Former UFC middleweight Chael Sonnen

Chael Sonnen predicts Nick Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler 2

Former UFC middleweight title challenger Chael Sonnen believes Nick Diaz will rise to the occasion in his comeback. 'The American Gangster' said on his YouTube show that he's convinced Diaz has been training hard and staying in shape despite being away from the octagon.

"My official prediction for Nick Diaz versus Robbie Lawler. I'm taking Nick Diaz and guys, I'm not bullish... I've gone back-and-forth, it has not always been Nick. Nick has convinced me that he stayed active. He has reminded me that he had his way with Robbie in Robbie's world, which was the stand-up, in their first fight, even if it was 17 years ago and that's not much to draw from."

Sonnen, however, jested that Diaz would probably lose now that had put a "curse" on him. The retired MMA star is said to be cursed as the fighters he picks to win usually end up losing.

Official UFC 266 pick: Nick Diaz

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#1. UFC welterweight contender Jorge Masvidal

Jorge Masvidal predicts Nick Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler 2

Two-time UFC welterweight title challenger Jorge Masvidal thinks ring rust will be a significant factor for both competitors. That said, though, 'Gamebred' believes Nick Diaz has the edge over Robbie Lawler despite being away from the UFC for a longer period.

In a Q&A session on his YouTube channel, Masvidal said he's worried about Lawler's last couple of performances. He also provided a breakdown of how he thinks Diaz vs. Lawler 2 will play out. He said:

"I haven’t seen Nick Diaz fight in eight years, so this fight, to me is very, like, I don’t know what’s going to happen. It’s not that ring rust is everything, but eight years is a lot of time to be sitting on the bench. So I want to say that Robbie hasn’t been looking like himself, he hasn’t been looking the greatest in his fights...this is a tough one to call for me. But if I was going to put money on it, I’d probably lean toward Nick.”

Official UFC 266 pick: Nick Diaz