If the main event of UFC 279 is to represent Nate Diaz’s swansong in MMA’s leading promotion, do not expect lush melodies and warm chord sequences. It is likely to be a sombre, uncomfortable affair, soundtracked by brutal strikes and taunting from the UFC’s hired gun, Khamzat Chimaev.
When 37-year-old Diaz was paired with the Russian-born Swede, the fight announcement was met with incredulity and anxiety in equal measure. Diaz is unranked at welterweight and has fought just three times in the past six years – winning only one of those bouts, three years ago. Meanwhile, Chimaev is the UFC’s fastest-rising star, 11-0 as a pro with 10 finishes; 5-0 in the UFC with four stoppages. The 28-year-old seems to be fast-tracking himself towards a welterweight title shot, especially with his last victory – a decision win against former title challenger Gilbert Burns.
