Nate Diaz slaps choke on Ariel Helwani in comical final interview ahead of MMA return

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Nate Diaz slaps choke on Ariel Helwani in comical final interview ahead of MMA return

Originally posted on Bloody Elbow | By Donagh Corby | Last updated May 16, 2026 2:25 AM ET

Nate Diaz comically put Ariel Helwani in a rear naked choke during ceremonial weigh-ins for his MMA return – but the veteran reporter did not tap.

Diaz is competing inside the cage for the first time since 2022 tomorrow night against Mike Perry in one of three main events on Most Valuable Promotions’ first MMA show on Netflix. He is in the shape of his life for the bout, weighing in less than he has since before his win over Conor McGregor a decade ago.

The duo will share co-headlining honors with Francis Ngannou and Philipe Lins. The actual main event sees Ronda Rousey return to action for the first time in almost a decade to take on Gina Carano – who last fought in 2009.

Nate Diaz puts choke on Ariel Helwani during ceremonial weigh-in

Perhaps the most exciting and competitive of tomorrow’s three headliners is the welterweight clash between Nate Diaz and Mike Perry. Neither man has fought in MMA for years as they opted to establish themselves in different sports.

I didn't tap. pic.twitter.com/TnOItWlvRv
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) May 16, 2026

Perry has become one of the biggest stars in BKFC history, while Diaz has had two high-profile boxing matches with Jake Paul and Jorge Masvidal. Now, after weeks of promotion, both men are keen to step into the cage and get to business.

And when Ariel Helwani attempted to ask Diaz some questions on stage at tonight’s ceremonial weigh-in, he was very briefly put in a rear naked choke for his troubles. Luckily, the fighter didn’t squeeze, and Helwani was even able to brag that he ‘didn’t tap’ to the hold that once put away Conor McGregor.

This article first appeared on Bloody Elbow and was syndicated with permission.

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