Dustin Poirier says he may retire after UFC 302 against Islam Makhachev to 'take care of my brain health'
Dustin Poirier epitomizes everything fans want in a fighter: a willingness to face anyone, anytime and anywhere.
Dustin Poirier epitomizes everything fans want in a fighter: a willingness to face anyone, anytime and anywhere. An openness to take a punch in order to throw a punch. The skill set to knock out an opponent standing up or choke someone out on the ground.
It’s been 15 years since his professional debut, the first of 39 matches that have mostly been exciting bouts. There was his Fight of the Year with Justin Gaethje in 2018. His incredible decision win against Max Holloway in 2019. His two knockouts of Conor McGregor in 2021.
The Lafayette, Louisiana, native has nine Fight of the Night bonuses, the second-most in UFC history.
Poirier, 35, will look to continue that streak on Saturday when he squares off with rising superstar Islam Makhachev in the main event of UFC 302 in Newark, New Jersey.
A win would give him what he’s spent his entire career dreaming of: an undisputed lightweight championship belt. A loss, however? It could result in him putting the gloves away for good.
Rating: 5