Dustin Poirier is setting his sights on Islam Makhachev, aiming to challenge him in the octagon. The UFC lightweight division, known for its thrilling matchups, is heating up as UFC 300 approaches, featuring two significant fights among top contenders, three of whom are former champions.
Justin Gaethje, the BMF champion, and Charles Oliveira, the former undisputed lightweight champion, are seen as the next logical opponents for the reigning champion, Islam Makhachev. However, they must first prove themselves by securing victories against Max Holloway, the former featherweight champion, and Arman Tsarukyan, a rising star in the division. Meanwhile, Dustin Poirier, a former interim titleholder, has re-entered the win column with a stunning second-round knockout of Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 299. This victory has potentially paved the way for Poirier, known as “The Diamond,” to get an early shot at the title.
Poirier expressed his desire for a title fight, stating, “A hundred percent, that’s what I want. If I could choose any fight, it would be the title fight.”
Both Poirier and Makhachev have shown interest in facing each other next. Makhachev, planning a return in June, finds Poirier to be a suitable challenger, despite not seeing him as the most deserving. Poirier, unfazed by Makhachev’s comments, retorted, emphasizing his extensive contributions to mixed martial arts and his readiness to face anyone, including Makhachev.
Poirier highlighted his achievements and aspirations, saying, “That’s the only thing left for me to do. I’ve accomplished everything else in mixed martial arts. I’ve built businesses, headlined numerous events, and fought in the UFC octagon 30 times. My family is secure. The only achievement that eludes me is capturing the title, and that’s what I’m aiming for.”
Should Makhachev and Poirier clash for the 155-pound title, a victory for Makhachev (25-1) would tie him for the divisional title defense record at three, following his consecutive wins over Alexander Volkanovski last year.
In other news, Andre Lima received a unique “bite-bonus” tattoo and an additional $25k from Dana White after a peculiar victory at UFC Vegas 89. Various fighters and personalities within the UFC have also made headlines, from Matt Brown’s candid opinion on Michael Chandler’s potential victory over Conor McGregor to Gilbert Melendez’s full-circle moment working with Scott Coker and contemplating a return to fighting.
As the UFC continues to deliver exciting matchups and stories, the lightweight division remains a focal point for fans eagerly anticipating the next big fight. Whether Poirier will get his desired title shot against Makhachev remains to be seen, but the anticipation and potential matchups promise to keep the UFC’s lightweight division in the spotlight.