Nate Diaz’s unexpected signing with MVP for next Saturday’s Netflix card has sent shockwaves through the fight community. The Stockton bad boy is set to face Mike Perry in the promotion’s inaugural MMA event, a matchup that few saw coming—but one that keeps the door wide open for a potential UFC return.

The 41-year-old veteran had been heavily linked with a comeback to the Octagon, fueled by ongoing talks with the UFC and speculation about dream fights against Conor McGregor or Charles Oliveira. So when Diaz opted to join Jake Paul’s promotion instead, many fans were left scratching their heads. However, MVP co-founder Nakisa Bidarian has now shed light on the deal, revealing that Diaz’s path back to the UFC remains very much alive—even if that’s not exactly what the promotion wants to hear.

Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, Bidarian explained that money wasn’t the sole motivator for Diaz. “I think we offered less than the UFC, but we gave him flexibility,” Bidarian said. “Truthfully, it’s a one-fight deal. We always believed we’d show him why we deserve to be his promoters. We feel great about how it’s gone with him and his team.”

That one-fight clause is key: Diaz isn’t locked into a long-term MVP contract. If the UFC comes calling after the Netflix card, the door could swing open quickly. But for that comeback to feel credible and marketable, Diaz will likely need a strong showing against Perry. A win would reignite the buzz around potential UFC blockbusters—especially since Diaz has already admitted he came close to rejoining the promotion, with McGregor as a possible opponent before the MVP opportunity emerged.

Beyond McGregor, Diaz has his eyes on Oliveira, the Brazilian who currently holds a belt that Diaz has long coveted. Whether it’s the Octagon or the MVP cage, one thing is clear: Nate Diaz’s fighting journey is far from over.