Khabib Nurmagomedov and Dustin Poirier shared a heartwarming moment in the aftermath of the epic UFC 302 clash. The two legends of the lightweight division shared some words in the octagon as well as backstage. Later, Poirier shed light on his relationship with Nurmagomedov.
Dustin Poirier lost to Islam Makhachev via a 5th-round D’Arce choke. Nurmagomedov came to Poirier in the octagon and shared some words. Poirier revealed their conversation and reminded everyone of the respect he had for Khabib Nurmagomedov.
I think he said I’m a legend, a great fighter. They have a lot of respect for me. And I have a lot of respect for those guys too. You know, Khabib helped me out with my foundation when we had a big goal, our first huge goal. We swapped shirts and we ended up raising a lot of money to buy land and build water wells for the Pygmy people in Uganda.
Dustin Poirier at the UFC 302 Post-fight press conference
Nurmagomedov auctioned off the t-shirt Poirier wore at UFC 242 for a staggering $100,000. All proceeds went to Poirier’s charity, The Good Fight Foundation. This foundation aims to build clean water wells in Uganda. It also provides help to school children, people in need of medical aid, and much more.
The former interim lightweight champion had initially hoped to raise $25,000. But thanks to Nurmagomedov’s incredible generosity and additional matching funds from Dana White, that total ballooned past $200,000. Poirier has not forgotten about the donation and still keeps the respect for Nurmagomedov close to heart.
Khabib Nurmagomedov showcases extreme sportsmanship at UFC 302
Khabib Nurmagomedov, the former lightweight king, provided a touching display of sportsmanship after UFC 302. Moments after his protege Islam Makhachev retained the lightweight title, the mentor turned his attention to his defeated former foe.
Khabib Nurmagomedov picks Dustin Poirier up after UFC 302 (via MMA Fighting/ talkSPORT)Doctors swarmed an unconscious Dustin Poirier following his submission loss. Nurmagomedov brushed them aside and went near to Poirier. The footage showed the Russian icon helping the dazed American off the canvas. Poirier was still regaining his senses and signaled he was ready to rise. But rather than leave that task to medical personnel, Nurmagomedov took charge with a firm but gentle demeanor.
He extended a hand, pulling Poirier upright as the two men locked eyes. With Poirier finally vertical, they shared an embrace and kind words in the center of the octagon. Nurmagomemdov then took Poirier’s hand and raised it in triumph, urging the crowd to cheer for Poirier. The gesture also highlighted the personal bond between the two, born from their own classic clash at UFC 242.
