Dustin Poirier laughs at Islam Makhachev being a better boxer than him: “I don’t know if he really believes that"
Dustin Poirier and Islam Makhachev are set to go to war for the undisputed lightweight title at UFC 302 on June 1. The clash will pit one of the division's best stand-up fighters against arguably the most well-rounded fighter at 155 pounds, in what should be a thrilling bout.
'The Diamond' is known particularly for his crisp boxing skillset but has an underrated ground game to boost, which has helped him secure eight career submission wins.
However, according to Makhachev's coach, Javier Mendez, the Dagestani is a better 'pure boxer' than Poirier. The lightweight champion has been labeled in the past as 'Khabib 2.0' given his close relationship with 'The Eagle'. Makhachev's grappling skills are said to be on par with Nurmagomedov's but has better striking skills than the former champion.
Ahead of the UFC 302 main event title fight, Poirier appeared in front of the media where he was informed of Mendez's comments. In response, Poirier said:
"I believe [he's a high-level boxer], but I would touch him up in a boxing match. I don't know if he really believes that. Of course anybody can land a shot and get beat, but I will box this guy. I will box his shoes off."
Watch Dustin Poirier respond to Mendez's claim below from 5:15:
Alexander Volkanovski predicts Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier
Dustin Poirier's lightweight title bout against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302 could be the last time he competes for championship gold in his career.
'The Diamond' has spoken candidly about being near the end of his career, with the desire to become an undisputed world champion - the only thing left for him to achieve - being the main reason he still competes.
However, Poirier will likely be facing the toughest test of his career thus far in his next fight, with Makhachev's skillset undeniably world-class.
Ahead of their clash, a former opponent of the Dagestani - Alexander Volkanovski - has shared his thoughts on the result of the bout. He said this:
"Islam's gonna be too good. I think he's too safe of a fighter to make mistakes where he's gonna get caught against someone like Dustin Poirier. [He's] a great fighter, I just think it's a hard fight for anybody. I don't see anyone beating Islam for a while, unless they catch him. The only way I see [him losing]..."
Watch Volkanovski preview Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier below from 11:30: