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Diaz outlasts Pettis in return to Octagon, calls out Masvidal

Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC / UFC / Getty

Nate Diaz's long-awaited return to the Octagon was a successful one.

In his first fight in nearly three years, Diaz earned a unanimous decision victory over Anthony Pettis in the UFC 241 co-main event.

Diaz's last fight was his UFC 202 loss to Conor McGregor in 2016. Though he appeared tired at times, the veteran maintained pressure throughout the bout and displayed an impressive stand-up and ground game.

The Stockton, Calif. product had Pettis up against the wall on multiple occasions, using short punches and knees to weaken his opponent. The 34-year-old took his back late in the fight but was unable to lock in a submission.

Following the eventful bout, Diaz (20-11) called out fellow welterweight contender Jorge Masvidal.

Pettis dropped to 22-9 following the defeat. He beat Stephen Thompson in March after his exciting loss to Tony Ferguson last October.

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