Nate Diaz has told Conor McGregor he will need to return to winning ways before he can earn a trilogy fight with his bitter rival.
The Irishman is plotting his return to the octagon later this year as he continues his recovery from a broken leg.
Diaz previously ruled out meeting McGregor for a third time before Dustin Poirier ruled out a fourth meeting with the Dubliner.
However, 36-year-old Diaz has now told McGregor the route to a trilogy on social media, tweeting: "Conor’s gonna have to get him some wins and prove he’s not so fragile first."
This post came in response to UFC president Dana White's assessment on McGregor's future, after the promotion's superstar admitted he is hoping to be ready to compete by the summer.
While several opponents have called out McGregor, White has admitted he would be "shocked" if an illustrious trilogy doesn't take place before the end of their respective careers.
Diaz defeated McGregor with a second-round submission during their first meeting at UFC 196 before the Irishman avenge his defeat later in the year by outpointing his rival.
Several options are on the table for McGregor including lightweight challenges from Tony Ferguson and Michael Chandler.
This could also include an immediate title shot if granted by the champion at the time with Charles Oliveira set to defend his title against Justin Gaethje.
McGregor is currently uncertain about his weight upon return with any trilogy against Diaz likely to take place at 170lbs.
However it seems likely he will look to make a return to the lightweight division if any title shot is offered.
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"April they said I can spar and box again so I can take it day-by-day," McGregor told Severe MMA. "Once I return to sparring I will know my weight, I will know how I feel and I will know my style."
Jokingly asked if he would return at light-heavyweight after bulking up to 190lb, McGregor said: "Light-heavyweight no, I am training; I go up and down and I am eating and lifting.
"I'm not sure yet to be honest... 155lbs or 170lbs I would imagine but I am not sure yet. It is about time this game gives me the respect from my different style s of fighting, there was an eleven percent charge that my bone didn't heal but it's past that stage now."
McGregor's physique has been a subject of talking point for fans in the build-up to the fight having been branded a light-heavyweight by his coach John Kavanagh.
Fans were impressed with his physique while he holidayed in the Bahamas and bumped into musician Justin Bieber.
The 33-year-old has claimed that he currently weighs around 190lbs but will make a significant cut when he is ready to return.
