UFC 137: Does Diaz Deserve a Title Shot After His Antics During Media Call?

This is just another case of Nick Diaz being Nick Diaz. 

During a UFC 137 pre-fight conference call, which also featured B.J. Penn, Cheick Kongo and Matt Mitrione, the Stockton, Calif. native appeared to be a no-show for yet another media appearance that would have likely sealed his fate with the UFC. 

Diaz finally made an appearance near the conclusion of the call, but he didn't appear to be quite interested in providing any answers to the media nor did he reply with anything significant that would possibly justify his tardiness. 

This incident is similar to Diaz's no-show at the UFC 137 press conferences, where he was originally scheduled to face UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre, but was eventually pulled from the main event and replaced by Carlos Condit.

It is no surprise that Diaz's antics make him one of the company's most polarizing figures, but with the spotlight firmly placed on him to carry UFC 137, he isn't necessarily leading by example. He certainly is not making a strong case to become the next contender for the UFC welterweight title. His recent actions have taken a considerable hit to his reputation and he doesn't seem to be fazed by it.

Obviously, Diaz's image is not what would you classify as professional. In fact, it's far from that. 

While competing in Strikeforce, Diaz could play by his rules because he was the company's biggest asset and any indication that the Strikeforce welterweight champion was being released would have led to the company's demise.

This time around, Diaz does not have the same freedom that he once did, but he continues to employ the same attitude he has always had and not "play the game."

As mentioned previously, this incident will likely be met with little criticism, as the old adage goes "Nick Diaz being Nick Diaz." However, his image and outlook on the sport is becoming tiring and predictable.

Diaz is his own worst enemy and if he continues to rebel against UFC management, he may never reach the success he is capable of achieving.