Islam Makhachev requests Dustin Poirier to not retire despite outcome of UFC 302

Islam Makhachev shows respect to Poirier's skills and hopes to continue seeing him in action.

Islam Makhachev requests Dustin Poirier to not retire despite outcome of UFC 302

Islam Makhachev wants Dustin Poirier to stay in the UFC (via Imago)

Dustin Poirier and Islam Makhachev are set to collide at UFC 302 this weekend. This event comes with a lot of stipulations as well. Talks about retirement from the main event fighter are running wild. The lightweight champion has a special request for his opponent, Dustin Poirier, ahead of their clash.

Islam Makhachev recently came out and stated that he didn’t think Dustin Poirier should retire yet, no matter the fight’s outcome. Makhachev gave props to the Louisiana native and expressed his desire for ‘The Diamond’ to continue his illustrious career.

He’s old. He’s talking about retirement, but I don’t want him (to) retire after this fight if I beat him, because this guy is dangerous. He can beat everybody, he’s number, like, top five in the world, you know? That’s why I don’t think it’s a good idea for him (to talk) about retiring, because he’s still a very dangerous guy.
Islam Makhachev via NBC Sports
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Poirier, known for his gritty determination and never-say-die attitude, had hinted that UFC 302 could potentially be his last dance inside the octagon. The veteran fighter candidly stated that he was ready to embrace the roles of husband and father. This comes after having dedicated a significant portion of his life to the unforgiving world of mixed martial arts.

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However, Islam Makhachev saw things differently. In his eyes, Poirier’s striking skills and experience make him a formidable force within the division. The thought of him walking away from the sport seems almost a waste. Of course, Poirier’s decision will ultimately be his own. Nevertheless, Makhachev and fans think Poirier still has plenty to offer in the lightweight division.

Islam Makhachev potentially set to match UFC record after fighting Dustin Poirier

Islam Makhachev will have the opportunity to etch his name alongside some of the greatest lightweight champions in UFC history this weekend. The Dagestani wrecking machine will equal a record that has stood for almost 15 years if he dispatches Dustin Poirier. This record comes in the form of the most successful consecutive lightweight title defenses.

Islam Makhachev close to match UFC lightweight record
Islam Makhachev close to match UFC lightweight record (via MMA Mania)

Makhachev’s reign as the 155-pound king started by dethroning Charles Oliveira in 2022. Soon, he fought the featherweight juggernaut Alexander Volkanovski in one of the most closely contested matchups in history. A rematch then saw him fight Volkanovski again, this time knocking him out and closing his rivalry with Volk.

A triumph over Poirier at UFC 302 would elevate Makhachev to rarified air. He would join a quartet of legends who have each defended the lightweight strap three times. The first to accomplish this feat was none other than B.J. Penn. Penn set the record in 2009 with a stunning victory over Diego Sanchez at UFC 107. Penn’s reign at lightweight made many consider as a complete fighter of that time.

Next up was Frankie “The Answer” Edgar, who dethroned Penn and went on to defend the belt three times. Benson Henderson then joined the club, though his title defenses were all hard-fought victories. Last but certainly not least is Makhachev’s mentor and friend, Khabib Nurmagomedov.

The undefeated Dagestani’s reign was a dominant masterclass, as he submitted Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje in succession. He then left the lightweight division in shambles before walking away at the peak of his powers. Now it’s Makhachev’s time to shine and stand shoulder to shoulder with these lightweight greats.

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