Nick Diaz’s coach, Cesar Gracie, recently shared insights into the UFC fighter’s personal struggles, suggesting that Ronda Rousey may have had an unexpected influence on Diaz’s difficulties. Gracie claims that Rousey, known for her strong personality and party lifestyle, introduced Diaz to drinking—a habit that, according to him, sent the talented fighter down a challenging path.

“He was the best fighter I’ve ever seen,” Gracie revealed during an interview on Legacy TV. “But things changed when he started hanging out with certain people. I believe Ronda Rousey got him into drinking. She’d come around before she became famous, and they’d hang out. Ronda could handle it, but Nick couldn’t. He’s not someone who can drink—it just doesn’t work for him. That’s where things started to unravel.”

Gracie described how Diaz’s social circle shifted from training partners and longtime friends to people in the Hollywood and Las Vegas scenes, leading him further away from the discipline that defined his career. “I couldn’t follow him on that path,” Gracie admitted. “All I can do is stay on the outside and hope he finds his way back.”

Despite these challenges, Gracie expressed unwavering support for Diaz. “I love the guy—I’ve trained him since he was 16. I was like a father or older brother to him. But he needs to figure out what makes him happy. Whether he fights again or not, it’s up to him.”

Gracie also highlighted the importance of stability and grounding in life, pointing out a key difference between Nick and his brother, Nate Diaz. “Nate has someone in his life who keeps him grounded, someone with a good mentality. Nick never had that,” he explained. Gracie suggested that Diaz might find purpose in teaching and running his own academy, offering others the benefit of his experience and skills.

Diaz, once a dominant force in the UFC and a contender for multiple titles, was originally slated to fight Vicente Luque at UFC 310. However, he withdrew just weeks before the event, with Themba Gorimbo stepping in on short notice. The absence left fans wondering about Diaz’s future in the sport, but Gracie remains hopeful that Diaz will eventually find a path that brings him peace.