Nate Diaz: A Master of the Triangle Choke from Day One

The Rise of a Stockton Fighter

Nate Diaz, the renowned fighter from Stockton, has been a prominent figure in combat sports for over two decades. His journey began with a win that he would later replicate, showcasing his signature move: the triangle choke.

A Career Beyond the UFC

Diaz's career wasn't confined to the UFC. He also competed in other major leagues like Strikeforce and Pancrase before joining the WEC. However, it was in the UFC where he truly excelled.

The Ultimate Fighter 5

His first major UFC victory came when he won The Ultimate Fighter 5. On that card, he shared the stage with another UFC legend, Chael Sonnen.

Early UFC Success

In his first UFC fight at lightweight, Diaz showcased his skills early on. He used his patented triangle choke to secure the win. With guidance from his older brother Nick, Diaz locked in the choke and forced his opponent to tap out. This victory set the tone for his illustrious career.

Repeating History

Years later, Diaz repeated this move in the Octagon, further cementing his legacy. His ability to execute this submission from his back became one of his most celebrated moments.

The Fight That Put Him on the Map

Before his famous fight with Kurt Pellegrino, Diaz had a strong start in the UFC. He won his first five fights, including three submissions. Two of those wins came from his signature triangle choke. But it was his fight with Pellegrino that truly put him on the map.