Former UFC star Nate Diaz was initially in hot water for a New Orleans street fight that left a man unconscious, but now he's off the hook.
Former UFC star Nate Diaz won’t face criminal repercussions for an April street fight caught on camera.
On Monday, the Orleans Parish (La.) District Attorney officially refused to pursue any further legal action against Diaz, according to an online court docket. Shortly after the decision was filed, Diaz’s representative, Zach Rosenfield, issued the following statement to MMA Junkie via text message:
“Today, the Orleans Parish District Attorney informed us they will not be pursuing a case against Nate Diaz.
“Since Rodney Peterson sought out to fight Nate on Bourbon Street, we have maintained Nate’s actions were 100% in self defense. It was clear on video, clear in pictures and clear from the multiple other videos Rodney posted before and after.
“Nate has a right to defend himself against those who want to make a name for themselves and did so.
“We appreciate the Orleans Parish District Attorney taking the time to review all aspects of this case and their decision to not proceed with it.”
Diaz was caught on video choking a man unconscious with a standing guillotine on Bourbon Street following an influencer boxing event this past April. The two engaged each other in the middle of a larger melee. The man was later identified as Rodney Peterson Jr., an amateur MMA fighter and pro boxer, also known as “Not Logan Paul” on social media. In a follow-up video, Peterson showed off what appeared to be blood on the back of his head.
Two days later, a warrant for Diaz’s arrest was issued for second-degree battery. Diaz turned himself into authorities the next day. All the while, Diaz maintained his innocence but offered to cooperate with authorities.
If a criminal case was pursued, Diaz faced up to eight years in prison and/or a $2,000 fine, which is the penalty in Louisiana for second-degree battery.
Diaz, 38, most recently competed in an Aug. 5 boxing match vs. Jake Paul, his first combat sports competition since his UFC departure. Diaz by decision. His next professional move remains unclear.
