Conor McGregor throws bold accusation at Nate Diaz

Back in March, Nate Diaz stepped in on just two weeks notice to fight Conor McGregor in the main event of UFC 196. While the bout was initially supposed to be a lightweight matchup, the pair fought at welterweight.

McGregor gassed out early in the fight, going into the second round looking rather flat footed. Diaz capitalized on the situation, landing a 1-2 combination that rocked the featherweight champ. McGregor then shot for a takedown, which ultimately resulted in Diaz securing a rear-naked choke, forcing McGregor to tap.

Now, ahead of their rematch at UFC 202, McGregor is accusing Diaz of actually turning down title shots after his win at UFC 196.

He spoke to DailyStar:

“Real fighters respect real fighters,” McGregor said. “I respect that he held out for me as well. But at the same time, he played the safe option. He didn’t take what’s known in the game as a McGregor risk.

“He was offered welterweight belts, he turned them down. He was offered lightweight belts, he turned them down. He played what was in his mind a safer option. I respect that he did it.

“It was a smart move on his behalf. Why not? But not everyone is willing to take the risks that I am willing to take.”