Nick Diaz has returned from rehab in Mexico and is back in the MMA conversation, with his recent activity reopening discussion around old names tied to his past.

The Stockton native has reignited interest in a possible clash with current UFC champion Khamzat Chimaev, who once chased a fight with Diaz.

What happened?

Khamzat Chimaev posted on social media in 2021, saying "@nickdiaz209 surprise surprise I’m coming for you #209", referencing Stockton's 209 area code that Diaz proudly represents.

Diaz recently reposted Chimaev's 2021 callout on his Instagram story, publicly hinting at a possible clash.

The two fighters have a history of animosity, with Chimaev calling out Diaz and his brother in 2020.

Why it matters for Nick Diaz

The chances of Diaz and Chimaev actually colliding remain low, with Chimaev currently holding the 185-pound championship and dominating most of his opponents.

Diaz has just returned from a difficult phase of his life and is contemplating what comes next.

What comes next?

Diaz recently visited Xtreme Couture gym with close friend Jake Shields and shared a casual interaction with Sean Strickland, who is set to headline a UFC event against Anthony Hernandez.

A win for Strickland could place him in line to face Chimaev next, a rival he has long held deep animosity toward.

Diaz's return has already included blunt commentary aimed at another former champion, Jack Della Maddalena, who lost the 170-pound belt to Islam Makhachev at UFC 322.

Diaz criticized Della Maddalena's struggles on the ground, saying he did not feel sorry for the former welterweight champ.

The UFC legend has brought attention back to his past rivalry with Chimaev, who has been dominant in his recent fights.

Chimaev's callout of Diaz in 2021 was just one of many, as he has been vocal about wanting to fight top opponents in the UFC.

Diaz's response to Chimaev's callout has sparked interest in a possible fight between the two, although it remains to be seen if it will actually happen.

The Stockton native has a long history of competing at a high level in the UFC, and his return has been highly anticipated by fans.

As Diaz contemplates his next move, a fight against Chimaev would be a major challenge, but also a potential opportunity for him to prove himself against one of the best in the sport.