GracieFighter.com, the official Web site of Nick Diaz’s trainer Cesar Gracie, is reporting that the Strikeforce welterweight champion will confront Japanese legend Hayato “Mach” Sakurai on May 29 in Japan for the Dream promotion.
Diaz (21-7, 1 NC) has won his last six bouts, and last saw action in a thrilling stoppage of Dream 170-pound champion Marius Zaromskis on Jan. 30 at Strikeforce “Miami.” The 26-year-old BJJ black belt hails from Stockton, Calif.
Sakurai (35-10-2) has lost his last two fights by knockout and submission at the hands of Zaromskis and Akihiro Gono, respectively. Much like Diaz, the 34-year-old Tokyo-based fighter is a seasoned veteran that has competed at the highest levels the sport offers, including a long run for the Pride promotion and a failed UFC title shot against Matt Hughes at UFC 36 in March 2002.
May 29’s bout is expected to be held at 170 pounds.