In April 2023, Nate Diaz faced legal repercussions stemming from an incident in New Orleans. The episode unfolded nearly a year ago and led to Diaz’s arrest and charge of second-degree battery.
A video circulating on social media captured Diaz applying a chokehold to an individual, rendering him unconscious. The person was later identified as amateur MMA competitor Rodney Peterson.
Following the incident, Diaz’s spokesperson released a statement asserting Diaz’s actions as self-defense. Despite the claims, the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s office dropped the charges against Diaz in September.
Despite the dropped charges, Nate Diaz’s legal ordeal continued as Rodney Peterson initiated a civil suit against him. Peterson is represented by attorney Bradley Egenberg and seeks compensation for both physical and emotional damages incurred during the altercation.
The lawsuit states that Peterson “fell and struck his head on the concrete causing injuries which required emergency medical intervention” and that Diaz and two other people known as John Doe #1 and John Doe #2 fled the scene “in a monument of cowardice.”
It also alleges that Diaz’s actions led to Peterson suffering severe injuries, including head, neck, and brain trauma.
Additionally, Peterson is requesting damages for “suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, psychological distress, medical expenses, lost income and earning capacity.”
The lawsuit was filed on April 17 and aims to hold Diaz accountable for the repercussions of the altercation.
ESPN requested a response from Nate Diaz’s longtime representative, Zach Rosenfeld. He answered with a simple “LOL.”
As the legal saga unfolds, the implications for Diaz and Peterson remain uncertain.
However, Nate Diaz is currently gearing up for a boxing match against former UFC star Jorge Masvidal. Named ‘Last Man Standing,’ the event is supposed to take place on June 1st at Kia Forum in California, USA. The event will be a collaboration between the two contenders’ respective promotions.
