Dustin Poirier’s next fight could potentially be for a title belt and may also be his last in the UFC. Before his recent victory over Benoit Saint Denis, Poirier had lost two of his previous three fights, including one for the UFC Lightweight Championship. However, he managed to secure a second-round knockout in his latest fight, which has given him more momentum in his career. Poirier has faced many of the top lightweight fighters in the promotion but has yet to compete against the current champion, Islam Makhachev.
Poirier expressed his desire to have a title bout with Makhachev, stating that he feels great but realizes that he may not have many fights left in him due to the aging process in combat sports. Makhachev had previously indicated that Poirier did not deserve a shot at the belt, to which Poirier responded by highlighting his accomplishments and experience in the sport. Many expect the potential title fight between Poirier and Makhachev to take place this summer at UFC 302, and Poirier has hinted that this could be his 39th and final fight as a professional.
While Poirier has yet to win an undisputed title fight in his career, he expressed his desire to retire from the sport on his own terms and while he still has something left in the tank. Winning the UFC title is the only box left unchecked for Poirier, and he believes that accomplishing this feat would be the ideal way to end his career. Despite uncertainty about what he would do if he were to lose such a fight, Poirier seems content with the possibility of ending his career on a high note as a UFC champion.
Poirier acknowledged the risks associated with staying in the sport for too long, citing the example of fighters like Mike Tyson who continued to compete past their prime. He emphasized the importance of being there for his family and recognizing the toll that fighting takes on the body. Poirier currently holds a record of 30-8 in his professional career and is focused on achieving his ultimate goal of becoming the undisputed world champion in the UFC. Regardless of the outcome, Poirier remains determined to continue moving forward in his career and is grateful for the opportunities that the sport has provided him.
