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By: Jamie Penick, MMATorch Editor-in-Chief
The rematch between Carlos Condit and Nick Diaz may be off already. Dana White confirmed rumors and reports on Tuesday that Condit had agreed to the rematch, but now @FrontRowBrian on Twitter - who originally broke the news that the fight would happen - reports that the fight is off.
"*BREAKING NEWS* Carlos Condit vs. Nick Diaz II will NOT happen," Brian wrote. "An issue arose from Nick's camp last night. Nick will NOT be able to compete. I will not go into nature of why [Nick] Diaz can't compete in a rematch against Condit."
He added that Condit is still on his way to Las Vegas this week sign on for the unification bout with Georges St-Pierre.
Penick's Analysis: I have no idea what the issue could be that arose in Diaz's camp, but for something that would make him unable to compete it suggests a possible injury. However, that's baseless speculation, and it could be any number of things that would take this fight off the table. Brian also made it clear both sides wanted the fight before this issue arose, so until someone decides to come forward with the actual issue it's going to be left to the imagination. Regardless, Brian's been on point about this situation from the outset, so I'd trust this report, and expect more to come out from other areas when they catch up.
Update: A couple of things have been posted to Twitter that will lead to more speculation. First, Cesar Gracie posted two fairly cryptic messages:
"We greatly appreciate our fan support. Everything will be out soon."
"Nick would rematch in a heartbeat. No extra money needed. He is a true fighter and fights for his team and you fans."
Additionally, @FrontRowBrian said that the "issue" would be released publicly. Some believe that Diaz's camp is simply spreading things in confusion and that the bout is in jeopardy, and then there's the other speculation that it possibly has something to do with an issue Diaz has had in Nevada before. More on this when there's more information available.
One more addition: Cesar Gracie confirmed to MMAJunkie.com that the fight is not going to happen, but declined further comment.
[Nick Diaz art by Grant Gould (c) MMATorch.com]
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Jamie Penick, editor-in-chief
(mmatorcheditor@gmail.com)
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