The MMA world is abuzz with news that a potential UFC 302 lightweight title fight between Dustin Poirier and Islam Makhachev is in the works. After all, whenever you pair someone with Poirier's resume in the ring with arguably the best pound-for-pound athlete the sport has to offer in Makhachev, it is impossible not to dive into the implications this fight can have for both fighters' careers and the UFC as a whole.
The dominance of Makhachev in the lightweight division is perhaps unparalleled. The Russian is now 25-1 in his career, and he's been nearly unstoppable since entering the UFC in 2015. You dont beat the likes of Alexander Volkanovski, Charles Oliveira and Dan Hooker unless you know your way around the octagon -- his recent victories speak for themselves. However, against a proven striker like Poirier whose proven to be able to neutralize some of the sports best, it is fair to wonder whether Makhachev's dominance will continue.
Yet, Makhachev's world renowned skills in grappling + his diversity of striking cannot be overlooked, making him Poirier's strongest opponent to date. Poirier's fearlessness and veteran status in the UFC are factors to keep in mind, but Makhachev's multifaceted approach mixed with a well-rounded game spells trouble for his Louisiana counterpart.
One of the biggest things to look for in this match will be Makhachev's submission strength which could be a red flag for Poirier, who has been tapped before in defeat. Poirier will have to do his best to keep this fight on the feet, but even then Islan might prove to much for teh grizzly veteran.
The career of Dustin Poirier in the UFC is full of tenacity and memorable performances. Dustin Poirier in the UFC has been a rollercoaster, but he always gives fans their money's worth when it comes to entertainment and grit. Poirier's experience and 39 UFC fights stands as a testament to his-talent, but with his 30 wins also comes 8 losses on his record, as the Louisiana native looks to round out his historic career.
UFC 302 clash with Makhachev represents crossroads for Poirier. With the nature of this fight in mind, a loss is potentially devastating and could represent Poirier's last opportunity to get his hands on UFC gold. It's a fight that may determine what is next for Poirier in the promotion.
If Poirier stumbles against Makhachev at UFC 302, it would be a huge blow to his UFC title dreams. Should he lose in an uncompetitive match, Poirer could see his place in the lightweight division downgraded with another shot at the title porbbaly unlikely.
After all, a loss would be the kind of stumble that can haunt Poirier and dim his prospects in terms of stakes within the promotion going forward. If there is something that has defined Poirier's career, it is his resiliency and unwavering fighter spirit, but a loss at UFC 302 would certainly put an end to any title aspirations he might have left in him.
Dustin Poirier v. Islam Makhachev signifies a major crossroads in the narrative of Poirier's title shot hopes. Landing the assignment to face Makhachev, a formidable foe in his own right and then some, is just about as high-stakes of an opportunity as it gets for the Louisiana native. After years in the UFC and no sign of backing down, Poirier is standing at a fork in the road as he aims to possibly make one final run for a title shot somewhere along it — an outcome that would most definitely be felt across MMA.
