UFC star Dustin Poirier has talked about potentially retiring from MMA after his fight with Islam Makhachev. However, his plan did not sit well with fans and experts. Poirier is one of the most loved fighters on the roster, and fans are not ready for his departure.
Ahead of UFC 302, UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier has shared his opinions on this matter. In his recent YouTube video, Daniel Cormier revealed that he doesnโt like the idea of Dustin Poirierโs retirement. According to DC, fighters shouldnโt schedule their retirement while actively fighting.
I hate that, I honestly cannot stand that. I canโt stand hearing that itโs almost over for a guy that we all universally love and enjoy when heโs inside the octagonโฆ.I donโt love when athletes put a timeline, or a finishing point on a career thatโs still actively going on.
DC via his YouTube channel
Poirier shocked the MMA community when he announced his potential retirement after UFC 302. The fighter will face Islam Makhachev for the lightweight championship. Ahead of the fight, there is massive hype, and the Louisiana native has even claimed to get a knockout finish over the Dagestani.
Dustin Poirier started his tenure in UFC in 2011 and has fought big MMA names throughout his career. The โDiamondโ is one of the most respected fighters in the division, and his departure wonโt be easy, as seen in Cormierโs case. While many still hope that it wonโt be the case, Poirier has thought otherwise.ย
Dustin Poirier doubles down on potential retirement plans
Dustin Poirier has previously fought for the lightweight title twice. On both occasions, Poirier got submitted and did not successfully capture the belt. While he has kept returning for the UFC gold, Poirier has given up all hope for another title campaign this time.
In a recent interview, DP revealed that if he loses at UFC 304, he can definitely come back again. However, he doesnโt want to go through the same process again.
Iโm capable of anything. I can climb back to this spot and fight again for the world title. I can do anythingโฆ Itโs just that I donโt have it in me, and Iโm not going to do it again. Iโm not going to climb the ladder again.
Dustin Poirier via CBS Sports
Considering his most recent performance, Poirier, 35, looks to be at the peak of his career. He is a huge pay-per-view star, and the UFC fully understands this. Poirier has several other possible fights in addition to the impending title match. Still, all of this now hinges on the outcome of UFC 302.
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