At UFC Mexico in Mexico City on February 28, 2026, veteran fighter King Green delivered a stunning knockout over hometown favorite Daniel Zellhuber, shifting attention not only to his in-ring performance but also to a surprising callout directed at Michael Chandler. Following the victory, Green’s remarks stirred excitement across the UFC community, as he boldly positioned Chandler as his next potential opponent while also addressing longtime friend and UFC legend Nate Diaz.
King Green’s Remarkable Victory and Post-Fight Moment
King Green, 39, was widely underestimated before the fight against 26-year-old Daniel Zellhuber at UFC Mexico. Despite early struggles, including a submission attempt against him, Green turned the tide with a powerful right hand that knocked Zellhuber to the mat, silencing the roaring crowd. The knockout was decisive, but Green’s post-fight comments proved equally significant, as he unexpectedly grabbed the microphone and made statements that hinted at upcoming matchups within the UFC landscape.
Clarifying the Callout: Respect for Nate Diaz and an Invitation to Michael Chandler
Initially, Green’s shoutout to Nate Diaz appeared to be a direct challenge, leading fans to question whether a fight with Diaz was imminent. Green said,
“Hey Dana, bring my boy Nate Diaz back to the UFC,”
and added,
“Let him retire where he belongs.”
However, backstage he explained that his words were born out of respect and friendship rather than rivalry.
“Oh, no, no. Nate Diaz is my boy,”
Green said, detailing their close relationship.
“I have to bring him back. Nate’s like a cousin to me.”
He shared how Diaz had supported him early in his career:
“Nate, when I was a young kid, Nate let me come live with him. We trained together. He showed me so much about the UFC.”
While emphasizing the respect he holds for Diaz, Green shifted focus to Michael Chandler, announcing a more serious and competitive challenge.
“I really don’t call people out,”
Green admitted,
“But if I was going to call somebody out, I would say… Michael Chandler in the White House.”
He continued,
“Two great Americans, American bada– kickin’… we’ll do some s— like that.”
This bold statement highlighted a potential blockbuster fight brewing between the experienced King Green and well-known contender Michael Chandler.
Nate Diaz’s Focus on a Trilogy Bout with Conor McGregor
Meanwhile, Nate Diaz’s plans seem more directed toward settling unfinished business rather than responding to Green’s gesture. Diaz has been open about his desire to return to the UFC with a highly anticipated trilogy fight against Conor McGregor, whose prior bouts with Diaz left the series tied at one win each. Speaking to TMZ Sports, Diaz expressed his eagerness for competition, stating,
“I would like to fight somebody. I’m ready to get back into real action.”
He outlined his potential opponents plainly:
“I want to fight either McGregor (trilogy), I want to fight maybe Dustin Poirier if he stops being such a p—- and then maybe Mike Perry. We’ll see what happens in the future, though.”
Diaz’s list is anything but cautious and reveals his ambition to return with impact rather than just make a quiet comeback.
UFC’s Open Door for Nate Diaz and Implications of the Callout
Although Diaz has been inactive in the UFC since 2022, avenues for his return remain open. UFC President Dana White has publicly stated,
“it’s always Diaz’s house if he wants back in,”
underscoring the organization’s willingness to welcome the Stockton native. Diaz has maintained his presence in combat sports by boxing Jake Paul and fighting Jorge Masvidal, keeping both his profile and relevance intact.
The callout from King Green positions Michael Chandler in the spotlight, potentially setting up a high-stakes clash that fans will keenly watch. While Diaz’s ambitions lie in rekindling his rivalry with Conor McGregor, Green’s challenge to Chandler adds another layer to the evolving UFC matchmaking landscape, especially ahead of the anticipated White House event.
King Green’s surprising knockout and provocative comments have intensified speculation about upcoming UFC clashes, spotlighting the ongoing momentum within the lightweight and welterweight divisions. Whether Chandler steps up to accept this callout remains to be seen, but the fight community is undoubtedly energized by the prospect of such matchups.
