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#2. Former UFC title-challenger Nate Diaz
Regardless of his MMA record, Nate Diaz is still among the most popular fighters in the UFC. The former Ultimate Fighter winner has one fight left on his current contract, but his next opponent hasn't been confirmed yet. Since his contract situation was revealed, many opponents have been linked to him. In the past year, Tony Ferguson, Conor McGregor, Khamzat Chimaev, and most recently Dustin Poirier have been linked to Diaz.
Based on talks for a bout with Poirier stalling, Diaz could decide to pursue a rematch with Masvidal instead. Their first encounter was contested for the BMF title and headlined Madison Square Garden. The ending was somewhat controversial as the doctor felt the cut on Diaz’s eye hindered his ability to continue. The promotion usually hosts a big event in Madison Square Garden in November, so it'd be fitting for the rematch. Even if they fight between now and July, a bout in November would be a possibility.
Masvidal got the better of Diaz in the exchanges and was winning the fight prior to the doctor's stoppage. Perhaps after seeing what Covington did to Masvidal on the ground, Diaz could see an opportunity to use his grappling more. He has excellent grappling and could pose a threat to ‘Gamebred’ should they find themselves in a scramble on the ground.
#1. Former UFC lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos
Based on what transpired at UFC 272, Masvidal vs. Rafael dos Anjos would be a great fight to book. After a unanimous decision win over Renato Moicano, dos Anjos used his post-fight interview to call for a fight with Masvidal. It was a milestone win for him as it was his 20th in the promotion.
The former lightweight champion was in a difficult spot. He was initially scheduled to fight Rafael Fiziev. However, ‘Ataman’ was forced out of the event due to COVID-19. As a result, Moicano stepped in, and fans were treated to a bout many considered Fight of the Night. RDA looked great, and the fight could have easily been stopped following the third round.
Masvidal vs. dos Anjos would be an intriguing fight. Dos Anjos lost his last two welterweight bouts to Michael Chiesa and Leon Edwards. On the other hand, ‘Gamebred’ has lost to the champion and No.1-ranked welterweight, so it wouldn’t be a mismatch. He would benefit from a win as it would keep him close to the title picture at 170lbs.
