After potential ‘Last Dance’ against Islam Makhachev, Dustin Poirier set to make return for UFC 303

Dustin Poirier returns at UFC 303 after retirement talks at UFC 302.

After potential ‘Last Dance’ against Islam Makhachev, Dustin Poirier set to make return for UFC 303

Dustin Poirier is back for UFC 303 (Image via Imago)

Dustin Poirier recently fought Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. While ‘The Diamond’ suggested after the fight that it could be last day in the octagon, it definitely was not the last in the UFC. Poirier is returning this upcoming event at UFC 303. That too at a role, which could potentially serve as his post-fight career.

Dustin Poirier will join the analyst team for UFC 303 alongside Brendan Fitzgerald, Chael Sonnen, and Teddy Atlas. Meanwhile, Daniel Cormier, Joe Rogan, and Jon Anik will handle the commentary. Megan Olivi is the sideline reporter, while Din Thomas is on real-time analysis.

Conor McGregor was supposed to make his highly awaited comeback this year at UFC 303. However, due to injury, ‘The Notorious’ had to pull out of his fight against Michael Chandler. Alex Pereira took over in the last minute, and will now fight his second light-heavyweight title defense against Jiri Prochazka. Meanwhile, Brian Ortega will take on Diego Lopes at featherweight, headlining the co-main event.

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Another exciting matchup on the main card is the welterweight showdown between Ian Garry and Michael ‘Venom’ Page. This is not ‘The Diamond’s first rodeo at the broadcast desk. He previously did the same last year at UFC 287 in Miami, Florida. This is less than a month after Poirier lost his third shot at the UFC lightweight title. Poirier went five rounds with Islam Makhachev before getting choked out by the Dagestani champion in the final round.

Dustin Poirier hints at retirement with cryptic tweet on X

The Louisianian went into UFC 302 with rumors that it could be his last showdown in the octagon, especially if he lost. Although he did not announce his retirement, Poirier addressed the topic in his post-fight interview saying he wanted to take some time to think about his future moves.

Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier at UFC 302
Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 (Image via X)

Poirier is financially secure after his big-money fights against McGregor. Moreover, he also has his hot sauce brand for a steady flow of income. Now, fans believe Poirier might be ready to hang up the gloves after what he just posted on X. In a recent tweet, ‘The Diamond’ shared a picture from his fight against Makhachev. 

Been toe 2 toe with the best of em. Grateful for the journey.
Dustin Poirier on X

Earlier this month, Dustin Poirier made an appearance on The MMA Hour. There he talked about his potential retirement plans. The former interim champion did mention that he would be willing to have one more fight, but only if it’s the right opponent. It will be interesting to see who this opponent might be. Or could it be at UFC 303 where Dustin Poirier announces his retirement? Only time will tell.

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