Nate Diaz is set to launch his own mixed martial arts promotion ahead of what many believe will be his final UFC fight this weekend.

For many years now, Nate Diaz has been recognised as a true fan favourite in the eyes of those who watch and love mixed martial arts. The Stockton king knows exactly how to push the buttons of the UFC and in equal measure, he also knows how to deliver an entertaining performance inside the Octagon.

He may never have become a champion with them, but he did make his name as one of the biggest stars in the sport - with his Conor McGregor rivalry having a big role to play in that.

Now, as he heads into what is expected to be his last UFC appearance, it’s been announced that Diaz will be expanding his horizons in the form of starting his own company.

The following statement indicates what he plans to achieve, and also confirms that he’ll still be active as a fighter.

“Nate will be applying for his promotors license in the coming weeks to form Real Fight, Inc., a new promotion that will focus on promoting combat sports shows, specifically boxing, MMA and BJJ.

“The new venture has no bearing on his status as a fighter, where he will continue to be very active. Real Fight, Inc. is his expansion into the business side of the sport where he has been a fixture for close to 20 years.

“The promotion will look attract fighters from around the world, whether it be up and coming prospects or household names who fit the brand of “Real Ninjas. Real Fighters. Real S***..”

Khamzat awaits

It’s a fight that many people found confusing when it was first booked but now that we’re just days away from it happening, the hype for Khamzat Chimaev vs Nate Diaz is through the roof.

‘Borz’ is the clear favourite with the bookmakers to get his hand raised but as we all know, counting out someone like Nate can so easily turn out to be a mistake, especially at an event as big as UFC 279.