UFC 302 is gearing up to be a legendary card. Dustin Poirier prepares for his third shot at UFC lightweight gold. He recently revealed that his upcoming foe Islam Makhachev may be an even more difficult challenge than the legendary, Khabib Nurmagomedov.
Ariel Helwani recently interviewed Dustin Poirier. The ‘Diamond’ analyzed the similarities and differences between Makhachev and his former rival, Nurmagomedov. And according to the seasoned veteran, the current 155lb king might just have a more well-rounded overall game.
[Islam’s] submission game, Jiu-Jitsu wise, is a bit more versatile than Khabib’s was. Khabib had some chokes that he did really well, but Islam’s put himself in bad positions, going for armbars, maybe he loses a position but he uses his wrestling to get it back. [Islam’s] a bit more of a threat Jiu-Jitsu wise in scrambles, and his striking is better than Khabib.
Dustin Poirier via The MMA Hour
Nurmagomedov is considered one of the most dominant grapplers in UFC history. But Poirier clearly feels his upcoming UFC 302 adversary poses unique challenges that even the great “Eagle” didn’t bring to the table. Islam Makhachev‘s slick submission skills and improved standup make him a minefield to navigate.
Poirier is recently coming off a KO win against Benoit Saint-Denis. Makhachev is also coming off a KO victory against Alexander Volkanovski. The fight between these two top lightweight promises to be an exciting showdown in the UFC 302 main card.
Dustin Poirier delves into retirement plans ahead of UFC 302
MMA is a sport that takes a lot from the fighters. As such, they hang up their gloves after the fire in them simmers down. Dustin Poirier is currently preparing for probably the biggest fight of his career against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. “Diamond’ recently hinted that this could be his final walk to the Octagon.
Dustin Poirier hints at potential retirement following UFC 302 (via BJ Penn)In a recent interview, the 35-year-old veteran was candid about his plans after over 17 years of professional fighting. When asked if the June 1st title bout in New Jersey could mark his retirement, Poirier didn’t rule it out. He said that he had given a lot to the sport and still had some left in him. But the Louisiana native questioned if he was willing to give more to the sport. He hoped to end his career with the belt finally wrapped around his waist.
If Poirier does opt to retire with a historic title win over Makhachev, it would be a crowning storybook achievement. For now, though, Poirier seemed focused solely on the massive challenge ahead in Makhachev. The odds may be stacked against Poirier, but he remains confident in his abilities. The duo will leave it all in the Octagon on June 1, 2024.
