Jorge Masvidal believes the crowd’s influence in Nate Diaz‘s home state affected the judges’ decision in their boxing match, leading to his majority decision loss despite landing more significant punches.
Jorge Masvidal believes fighting in Nate Diaz’s home state worked against him in their boxing match on Saturday night.
In what turned out to be a surprisingly entertaining 10-round war, Masvidal lost a majority decision. One judge scored the fight a draw, while the other two gave Diaz the nod in overwhelming fashion. One scorecard totaled 97-93, and the other was 98-92, more than enough to give Diaz the win.
Obviously, Masvidal disagreed. Especially given the stats that showed he out-landed Diaz in total punches and power punches over the course of the fight.
“I definitely know the judges were influenced by the crowd,” Masvidal said at the post-fight press conference. “Because a lot of those shots were landing in the corner, I was just getting my timing. He’d throw three or four shots that wouldn’t land, then I’d throw a good power shot.”
“I’d see that I’d hurt him and I’d back him up or he would start goofing around. Hurt him to the body numerous times.”
Masvidal continued, “I think one or two of the judges only gave me two rounds. There’s just no way.” He added they reviewed meaningful shots in the locker room and felt he landed more impactful blows.
“We’re 1-1,” he said with determination. “We can run it back someplace like Vegas. Make it a neutral place and let’s f*cking throw down.”
While he didn’t have time to re-watch the entire fight, Masvidal saw enough footage to know he hit Diaz with bigger and more impactful shots. What hurt him was likely the crowd roaring every time Diaz threw a punch — whether it connected or not.
Perhaps Masvidal’s biggest issue with the scorecards wasn’t losing but rather how lopsided they were against him.
“From what I saw, I definitely hurt him more than he ever hurt me,” Masvidal said. “I got way cleaner shots, especially to the body.” He emphasized that Diaz never did anything significant to his body.
Eight rounds to two? That’s nuts! Whatever, it’s California. Knew I had to get a knockout or some shit like this.
Despite his disappointment with the result, Masvidal co-promoted a massive card alongside Diaz that sold out Honda Center in Anaheim. It added responsibilities compared to his UFC days but was worth it.
“No matter what, we put on a great fight,” Masvidal said confidently. “The shit people are saying online? Everybody’s loving it.” Entertaining fans is crucial too; they could probably sell out another arena wherever it’s at.
Saturday marked Masvidal’s first appearance since announcing his UFC retirement in 2023. Though still under contract with UFC, he got permission to cross over into boxing for this bout with Diaz.
“With UFC, I’ve got a couple more [fights on my contract],” revealed Masvidal. “With Fanmio, I’ve got two boxing matches left.”
“Win or lose,” he reflected thoughtfully, “it was a great experience.” Learned about boxing craft and himself; lots of miles left in his tank.
Ideally? Settle things with Diaz once and for all—technically tied at one apiece after two fights: UFC 244 win for Masvidal; majority decision loss in rematch boxing ring.
“We’re 1-1,” reiterated Masvidal eagerly. “Run it back someplace like Vegas.” Neutral ground for an epic showdown!