“I don't even think he's that good”: MMA Veteran Ben Askren labels Nate Diaz as an average fighter bringing up Stockton slugger's UFC record

Ben Askren recently discussed Nate Diaz as a fighter and stated that the Stockton Slugger had an average career in combat sports. Diaz is unquestionably one of the biggest names and most well-known figures in mixed martial arts. Even though the Stockton native was never able to win a UFC title, he is highly recognized for drawing attention to the sport and assisting in the mainstreaming of mixed martial arts.Throughout his career, Diaz has defeated notable opponents including Conor McGregor, Tony Ferguson, Anthony Pettis, and Michael Johnson. He has a professional record of 21–13.While many believe Diaz is a bona fide legend in the MMA world, Askren recently explained why, in a conversation with Daniel Cormier, he perceived the former UFC star as an ordinary competitor."Nate Diaz... I don't even think he's that good. I'll go look at his record if you want me to. He has convinced people he’s good at fighting somehow, some way... He was average. His record is 21–13...That’s not that great... Within the UFC, he was 16–12. That's not very good... Please don’t post this clip because the Diaz Army will attack me. He has some fans who are rabid."During an episode of The Joe Rogan Experience podcast with Shane Gillis, Ari Shaffir, and Mark Normand last year, the world-famous podcaster shared his thoughts on Nate Diaz and asserted that the Stockton Slugger was the most "underappreciated superstar" of the Conor McGregor era.Rogan highlighted Diaz's dedication to keeping his persona despite his environment by saying: Despite not winning UFC gold, Diaz left a strong mark during his time in the promotion. The entire MMA fandom was stunned when he submitted McGregor with a tight rear-naked choke in the second round at UFC 196 in 2016.The 40-year-old returned right away to rematch "The Notorious" at UFC 202, but lost by majority decision. Notably, the Irish superstar expressed a wish for a trilogy battle and called Diaz his hardest opponent.Also read: Nate Diaz and Nick Diaz’s combined net worth 2025: Career earnings, legacy and more