Islam Makhachev hopes Dustin Poirier doesn’t retire after UFC 302 and praises his career: “I respect him"
Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier are set to clash in a highly anticipated lightweight title bout on June 1, 2024. The pair will headline UFC 302 in Newark, New Jersey, and both fighters are fully confident ahead of Saturday night.
'The Diamond' has competed in the octagon since 2011 and is regarded as one of the veterans of the 155-pound division.
Despite having not won an undisputed UFC title, Poirier has achieved almost everything else in the sport having won an interim title, as well as having huge wins over names like Conor McGregor and Max Holloway on his record.
Given his accomplishments and near 15-year tenure in the UFC, there are rumours that the Lafayette native may retire following his clash with Makhachev. 'The Diamond' himself has admitted to considering retirement for several years now, and stated that at this point in his career, any fight he takes could be his last.
Ahead of UFC 302, the reigning lightweight champion appeared in front of the media where he discussed his opponent's legacy. He said:
"I hope he doesn't retire after this fight. I think he is one of the biggest names in the sport. That's why I respect him, I respect him because he has a lot of crazy fights in this sport. I'm happy to beat someone who has a big name like Dustin. For my legacy, it's going to be the biggest name on my list."
Check out Islam Makhachev's comments below (5:15):
Dustin Poirier responds to Islam Makhachev claiming that 'The Diamond' doesn't believe he can win
Dustin Poirier will be challenging for undisputed lightweight gold for the third time when he faces off against Islam Makhachev on June 1.
'The Diamond' will be entering the bout full of confidence after securing a second-round KO victory over surging contender Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 299. However, the reigning champion said that he doesn't think Poirier genuinely believes he can win his upcoming fight.
The former interim lightweight champion appeared in front of the media ahead of his clash with Makhachev, where 'The Diamond' was informed of the champion's comments. He issued a retort, saying:
"I can definitely win this fight. If I touch his chin he'll go down. He'll find that out on Saturday. Maybe that's something he doesn't need to believe, maybe he needs to be positive and be confident - which he should be. But if you don't think I have a chance to win, you're lying to yourself."
Watch Dustin Poirier's response to Islam Makhachev below from 3:10: