UFC 141: Nate Diaz Proves He Is a Force in the Lightweight Division

After overwhelming Donald Cerrone at UFC 141, Nate Diaz proved that he is a force to be reckoned with in the lightweight division.

It was the best performance of Diaz's career, as he once again showed drastic improvements in his boxing ability. He was dominant in the first round, landing his trademark jabs with volume, accuracy and power.

He threw beautiful combinations throughout the fight and it seemed as if every punch was finding its way to Cerrone's jaw. Diaz did get his legs swept out from under him on several occasions, but it wasn't enough to slow him down or sway the judge's scorecards.

It looked like he was well on his way to a knockout, but he ended up with the unanimous decision victory (30-27, 30-27, 29-28).

It was the second fight in a row that Diaz showed off his improving skills. He put on a boxing clinic against Takanori Gomi in September, before eventually transitioning from a triangle lock to the armbar that won him Submission of the Night honors.

With every elite fighter, and professional athletes in general, there comes a time when everything clicks and they take the final step towards greatness. Based on his last two performances, Diaz is in the process of taking that step.

His timing is perfect, his accuracy is pinpoint and his technique is gorgeous. He will have a reach advantage over just about everyone he faces and his energy level is unmatched. Also, at just 26 years of age, he's about to enter his physical prime.

Everything is finally clicking for Nate Diaz and the rest of the lightweight division should be terrified.