Nate Diaz was born on April 16, 1985, in Stockton, California. Few fighters capture the raw spirit of mixed martial arts like Nate Diaz. Known for his relentless cardio, fearless attitude, and unmatched durability, Diaz has become a fan favorite inside and outside the Octagon.
From his street-tough beginnings in Stockton to his iconic battles with Conor McGregor, Nate has carved out a legacy that goes far beyond titles.
This article teaches you about Nate Diaz’s net worth, biography, fight purses, endorsements, career achievements, spouse, career overview, and more.
Nate Diaz’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nathan Donald Diaz |
| Nickname | Nate Diaz |
| Birth Date | April 16, 1985 |
| Birthplace | Stockton, California, USA |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (183 cm) |
| Weight | 170 lbs (77 kg) |
| College | San Joaquin Delta College |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | American |
| Turned Professional | 2004 |
| Salary | Varies per fight ($250K–$1M+) |
| Current Net Worth | Estimated $10 Million (2025) |
| Relationship Status | In a long-term relationship |
| Spouse | Misty Brown |
| Children | 2 daughters |
| Car Collection | Tesla Model X, Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Tahoe |
| Bike Collection | Harley-Davidson Street Bob |
| Top Brands Uses | Reebok, Represent Ltd., Everlast |
| Hobby | Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Triathlon Training |
| Instagram Profile | @natediaz209 |
Raised in a tough neighborhood, he grew up with his brother Nick Diaz, who also became a renowned MMA fighter. Their single mother worked tirelessly to support them, while both brothers found purpose in martial arts training.
As teenagers, Nate and Nick spent countless hours in Cesar Gracie’s jiu-jitsu gym. That foundation built Nate’s fighting style, blending jiu-jitsu skills with boxing toughness.
With family as his biggest support system, Nate transformed from a local fighter into an international MMA star.
Early Career
Nate Diaz began competing professionally in 2004. He sharpened his skills in World Extreme Cage fighting (WEC), where he quickly gained recognition for his scrappy fighting style.
In 2007, he entered The Ultimate Fighter 5, winning the lightweight tournament and earning a UFC contract. That victory launched his career on the global stage, proving his resilience and grit.
Professional Career
Nate Diaz’s UFC journey is packed with unforgettable moments. He fought top contenders in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions, showcasing his signature Stockton slap and iron chin.
His submission win over Kurt Pellegrino in 2008 highlighted his jiu-jitsu mastery, while his wars with Donald Cerrone and Michael Johnson displayed his boxing evolution. Diaz’s most iconic fights came against Conor McGregor.
In March 2016, he shocked the world by defeating McGregor via rear-naked choke at UFC 196. Although McGregor won the rematch, both bouts became instant classics and boosted Nate’s popularity worldwide.
His toughness, attitude, and authenticity turned him into one of MMA’s most marketable fighters. In recent years, Nate has also explored boxing, keeping his competitive spirit alive.
Wife
Nate Diaz has been in a long-term relationship with Misty Brown, his high school sweetheart. Together, they have 2 daughters.
Nate Diaz’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Nate Diaz has an estimated net worth stands at $10 million. His wealth comes from UFC contracts, boxing matches, sponsorships, endorsements, and his own lifestyle brand, Represent Ltd. His fights against Conor McGregor and Jake Paul significantly boosted his financial portfolio.
Contract
Nate Diaz completed his UFC contract in 2022 after fighting Tony Ferguson at UFC 279. He then transitioned to boxing, facing Jake Paul in 2023.
Currently, Diaz is a free agent, which allows him to negotiate lucrative deals in combat sports, including potential UFC returns or high-profile boxing matches.
Fight Purses
| Date | Opponent | Result | Purse |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 2016 | Conor McGregor | Win | $620,000 |
| Aug 2016 | Conor McGregor | Loss | $2 Million |
| Nov 2019 | Jorge Masvidal | Loss | $500,000 |
| Sept 2022 | Tony Ferguson | Win | $971,000 |
| Aug 2023 | Jake Paul (Boxing) | Loss | $500,000 + PPV share |
Endorsements
- Represent Ltd. (Own brand)
- Reebok (former UFC deal)
- Everlast (training gear)
- Nick Diaz Academy promotions
Career Stats
| Date | Opponent | Result | Decision | Rnd | Time | Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 2023 | Jake Paul | Loss | UD | 10 | — | Boxing Debut |
| Sept 2022 | Tony Ferguson | Win | Submission | 4 | 2:52 | UFC 279 |
| Nov 2019 | Jorge Masvidal | Loss | TKO (Doctor Stoppage) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC 244 |
| Aug 2016 | Conor McGregor | Loss | Decision (Majority) | 5 | 5:00 | UFC 202 |
| Mar 2016 | Conor McGregor | Win | Submission (RNC) | 2 | 4:12 | UFC 196 |
| Dec 2015 | Michael Johnson | Win | Decision (Unanimous) | 3 | 5:00 | UFC on Fox 17 |
| Apr 2013 | Josh Thomson | Loss | KO (Head Kick & Punches) | 2 | 3:06 | UFC on Fox 7 |
(Record: 21 wins, 13 losses in MMA; 0–1 in boxing)
Career Major Achievements
- Winner of The Ultimate Fighter 5 (2007)
- UFC Fight of the Night (8 times)
- UFC Submission of the Night (5 times)
- UFC Performance of the Night (1 time)
- One of the most famous fighters in UFC history
- Defeated Conor McGregor at UFC 196
FAQs
How did Nate Diaz start his MMA career?
Nate began training at Cesar Gracie’s academy with his brother Nick. He turned professional in 2004 and rose to fame after winning The Ultimate Fighter 5.
Is Nate Diaz retired from UFC?
Nate is not officially retired. He left UFC in 2022 after finishing his contract but remains open to returning for big-money fights.
What is Nate Diaz’s fighting style?
He combines Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with boxing, using high-volume punches, submissions, and relentless pressure.
Who is Nate Diaz’s brother?
His brother is Nick Diaz, a former UFC fighter and Strikeforce champion. They both trained together since childhood.
Has Nate Diaz ever fought for a UFC title?
Yes, he fought Benson Henderson for the UFC lightweight title in 2012 but lost by decision.
What makes Nate Diaz popular among fans?
Fans admire his toughness, authenticity, and ability to take fights on short notice. His attitude embodies the true fighting spirit.
How much did Nate Diaz earn from fighting Conor McGregor?
He reportedly earned over $2.6 million across the two fights, not including PPV bonuses.
What is Nate Diaz’s net worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Nate Diaz has an estimated net worth stands at $10 million. His wealth comes from UFC contracts, boxing matches, sponsorships, endorsements, and his own lifestyle brand, Represent Ltd.
Does Nate Diaz have children?
Yes, Nate Diaz and his partner Misty Brown have 2 daughters, though he keeps them away from the spotlight.
What are Nate Diaz’s hobbies outside fighting?
He enjoys triathlon training, biking, jiu-jitsu practice, and spending time with his family.
