The reigning UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev, has been an impressive competitor in the organization. Since his promotional debut, the Dagestani fighter has defeated many formidable opponents. Most recently, at UFC 302, Dustin Poirier faced a heart-breaking defeat at the hands of Makhachev. Months later, the UFC lightweight champion reflected on the fight.
Islam Makhachev recently gave an exclusive interview with UFC legend Demetrious Johnson. During their conversation, they explored a variety of fascinating topics. One of the highlights was when Johnson brought up Makhachev’s last UFC fight. Notably, the UFC lightweight champion recalled how Dustin Poirier had opened a cut on his forehead during that match.
Last time, I was fighting Dustin Poirier. He prepare for this fight like very very, you know, he did like good I think homework and defends my wrestling. I did like a lot of mistakes… I did mistake like couple times you know, he give me (the gash). But when I watch the highlights, I like this fight.
Islam Makhachev via “MIGHTY” Podcast (@Mighty15x)
Although Makhachev dominated most of the fight, there were moments when Poirier managed to penetrate the champion’s defense. Consequently, there was significant bloodshed between the two lightweight fighters by the end of the title fight.
Interestingly, Makhachev is not accustomed to being on the receiving end of such bloodshed. Ultimately, the Dagestani fighter finished Poirier with a rare D’Arce choke, which earned him the UFC Submission of the Year award. Following that fight, Makhachev is now set to defend his title for the fourth time in his career.
This time, the UFC lightweight champion will face the number one ranked fighter, Arman Tsarukyan, in a rematch. The Armenian fighter was quite displeased with Poirier’s performance against Makhachev. He felt that Poirier gave up and lacked the mental strength needed to compete against the UFC lightweight champion.
Dustin Poirier shed light on the difference between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev
Dustin ‘The Diamond’ Poirier is a veteran in the UFC. Throughout his career, which spans over a decade, Poirier has faced several formidable opponents. One of the most notable fights of his career came against former undisputed lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov. Despite putting up a strong fight, Poirier was unable to secure a victory in that match.
Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier after their fight (Image via Instagram/@dustinpoirier)Similarly, the American fighter also faced a setback in his match against the reigning UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev. After this loss, Poirier participated in an interview with prominent MMA journalist Ariel Helwani. During the discussion, one of the topics addressed was Poirier’s comparison between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Makhachev.
Takedowns are different, pressure’s similar. Takedowns are a little different. He does a lot of upper body stuff you know. He kept trying to clinch up with me, Khabib would shoot lower shots. I think Khabib is stronger, physically stronger.
Dustin Poirier to Ariel Helwani
Dustin Poirier compares Islam Makhachev’s style of grappling to Khabib’s, and says Khabib is “stronger physically” than Islam
🎥 @arielhelwani #TheMMAHour pic.twitter.com/AyNVStPml4
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) June 10, 2024
Poirier considers Khabib Nurmagomedov to be a more formidable opponent than Makhachev. Currently, Nurmagomedov trains the reigning UFC lightweight champion. During Makhachev’s fight against Poirier at UFC 302, the ‘Eagle’ was in Makhachev’s corner. Given his experience facing Poirier, Nurmagomedov likely provided the champion with valuable insights that contributed to his victory.
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