Hardly anyone anticipates that Anthony Joshua will be defeated by Jake Paul when they participate in a live boxing match broadcast on Netflix on December 19. However, within the combat sports realm, there exists at least one prominent figure who supports Paul. This individual is none other than Nate Diaz, and he is backing his assertion with a financial stake.
In a statement made on the social media platform X this week, Diaz disclosed that he has placed a $20,000 bet on Paul to emerge victorious. Considering Paul’s status as a significant underdog, Diaz stands to gain $142,000 should his prediction prove accurate.
UFC veteran Nate Diaz makes daring bet on Paul vs. Joshua
I’ll takem both out same nite MMA fight @Biggerzcom pic.twitter.com/z67EEi1MNZ
— Nathan Diaz (@NateDiaz209) November 26, 2025
“I’ll takem both out same nite MMA fight,” Diaz expressed in his message, accompanied by an image of his alleged financial commitment.
This action by Diaz is considered audacious, and some might even label it imprudent. Joshua will possess every notable advantage in his forthcoming boxing contest against Paul. He is considerably larger, physically stronger, and possesses superior athletic capabilities. His level of experience is substantially greater. Perhaps the most crucial factor is that his skill set is vastly superior, having honed his abilities against the most formidable opponents in the heavyweight division throughout his career.
Diaz is a seasoned veteran of the UFC, having previously fought Benson Henderson for the organization’s lightweight title, although he was unsuccessful. He departed from the MMA promotion following a submission victory over Tony Ferguson in 2022. Since then, he has been gaining experience as a boxer.
To date, Diaz has participated in two professional boxing matches. In his most recent bout, he achieved a victory over fellow UFC expatriate Jorge Masvidal by decision. In his inaugural match, he suffered a decision loss to Paul. It is conceivable that he observed something during that evening in the ring that instilled in him the confidence that Paul can secure a win. However, indicators suggest that the UFC veteran is poised to forfeit $20,000 in the coming month. The prevailing sentiment is that Paul has no realistic prospects in the fight, a view shared by combat sports analyst Joe Rogan.
