Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier are set to meet in the octagon in less than 24 hours. The UFC 302 ceremonial weigh-in was an intense affair. The boos rained down as Islam Makhachev made his way to the face-off. Nevertheless, the lightweight champion responded coldly to the jeering New Jersey crowd.
Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier had an incident yesterday at the pre-fight press conference. This got both fighters heated and the crowd excited. After the ceremonial weigh-ins, Joe Rogan approached the P4P number 1 fighter, Makhachev. He had something to say to the booing Poirier fans in the crowd.
I will show you guys what they mean pound-for-pound best fighter in the world.
Islam Makhachev at the ceremonial weigh-ins
Those chilling words sent an unmistakable message to opponent Dustin Poirier and his fans. The Dagestani wrecking ball planned on silencing doubters with a definitive statement victory in this weekend’s main event. The champ’s cold-blooded focus comes through clearly whenever he speaks. This is a tribute to his unrelenting dominance against most opponents in the division.
Makhachev will look to match a record with a win over Poirier this weekend. He will be in the league with fighters like his mentor, Khabib Nuragomedov, Benson Henderson, Frankie Edgar, and BJ Penn, with 3 title defenses. Conversely, Poirier will look to make a last attempt at the coveted lightweight belt. This may also be his last walk to the octagon before hanging up the gloves.
Islam Makhachev had some choice words for Dustin Poirier and his coach
Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev had an interesting take on Dustin Poirier and his coach ahead of their UFC 302 bout. The champion didn’t mince words about Dustin Poirier’s self-belief. He believed that the ‘Diamond’ as well as his team were already doubting his chances against him.
Islam Makhachev is confident to beat Dustin Poirier (via YouTube)Islam Makhachev revealed this belief at the UFC 302 media day. He was confident in winning against the Louisiana native and believed Poirier knew this. Makhachev took a shot at Poirier’s coach as well.
Dustin Poirier doesn’t believe he can beat me. His coach doesn’t believe he can beat me.
Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 media day
That’s the very definition of jampacked confidence from the undefeated Dagestani. Makhachev is known for his phenomenal wrestling skills and ground game, whereas Poirier is a terrific striker. However, it is common knowledge that he has historically not fared well against ground game experts like Charles Oliveira or Khabib Nurmagomedov. Only time will tell if Poirier will manage to find a chink in Makhachev’s armor and get the upset win at UFC 302.
