Dustin Poirier weighs in on MMA potentially being included in the Olympics
Dustin Poirier recently shared his opinion on MMA's probable inclusion in the Olympics. The global multisport event is scheduled to take place from July 26 to Aug. 11, 2024, in Paris. It includes various combat sports, but MMA is not currently one of them.
The history of MMA is far from correct. Gimmick fights with hands behind backs and other crazy stunts were common in the early days of mixed martial arts. There were no commonly understood regulations in this sport. However, the sport has expanded globally and is more popular than ever.
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Poirier expressed his thoughts on MMA potentially being included in the Olympics. The former UFC interim lightweight champion sees it happening now that the sport has moved all over the world and regularly sells out arenas.
He believes individuals who have the ability should seize the chance to represent their nations. He said:
''But now far into my pro career, as the sport grows and hearing people say it, I think it would be incredible for these young guys and people who are still an amateur chasing their dreams to represent the USA on the world stage would be incredible, man.'' [H/t: Fox News]
Previously during a UFC fan Q&A, UFC CEO Dana White also supported the idea of MMA becoming an Olympic sport. He said:
''I think it should be an Olympic sport already. It’s not my job. It’s not what I’m looking to do. I’m not pushing to turn this thing into an Olympic sport. I agree with whoever said that, yes. And not to mention the fact that one of the big problems the Olympics is having right now, is viewership. You want viewers? Put MMA in the Olympics. ”
Check out Dana White's comments below (8:30):
Dustin Poirier predicts his UFC 302 clash against Islam Makhachev
Dustin Poirier will have another chance at winning UFC gold when he faces Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title at UFC 302 on June 1.
Reigning champion Makhachev is the No.1 ranked pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC and is considered the most dominant force in the lightweight division. Poirier has a 2-2 record in his last four fights but secured his title opportunity with a stunning knockout victory at UFC 299.
In an interview with Yahoo Sports, 'The Diamond' predicted the fight in response to Makhachev's prediction of submitting him.
"I'm gonna knock [Makhachev] unconscious and the ref is gonna be pulling me off of him."
Check out Dustin Poirier's comments below: