UFC escaped ‘finger bite’ disaster as Dustin Poirier reveals secret from Michael Chandler fight

Dustin Poirier, a veteran in the UFC lightweight division, recalls interesting details from his UFC 281 fight against Michael Chandler.

UFC escaped ‘finger bite’ disaster as Dustin Poirier reveals secret from Michael Chandler fight

Dustin Poirier talks about his UFC 281 fight against Michael Chandler (Image via MMA Mania/MMA Fighting)

Michael Chandler entered the UFC with the reputation of being a former Bellator lightweight champion. With high expectations to enhance his status in the MMA world, Chandler viewed the UFC as a prime platform for success. However, his journey took a downturn, as he struggled to gain winning momentum. Recently, one of his former rivals, Dustin Poirier, reminisced about their matchup.

The fight between Michael Chandler and Dustin Poirier took place at the undercard matchups of UFC 281 in 2022. Recently, Poirier appeared on a podcast episode with Robert Griffin III. During the podcast, the ‘Diamond’ discussed several notable former rivals in the UFC lightweight division. While reminiscing about his fight with Chandler, the Louisiana-born fighter shared some intriguing insights.

I brought it up, and he said he didn’t do it. Just admit it, bro. You’re so fake. Then, he stuck his fingers in my mouth to lift my neck up for a rear-naked choke. He’s on my back, I’m trying to get off the fence, he sticks his fingers inside my mouth, grips my mouth guard, pulls my head up to try to get his hand under my chin. Bro, I bite his fingers so hard… if I didn’t have a mouth guard on my top teeth and my teeth could touch together, he’d be walking around [with two less fingers] forever.

Dustin Poirier via Outta Pocket with RGIII
YouTube video

Finger biting is generally banned in the UFC because it can cause serious injuries to the fighter being bitten. However, when Poirier bit Chandler’s finger, it didn’t cause significant damage to ‘Iron.’ Despite the tough and several controversial exchanges throughout the match, the ‘Diamond’ ultimately secured victory by submission.

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Recently, both fighters exchanged several harsh words with each other. Notably, Poirier did not appreciate Chandler creating chaos and making unnecessary comments about other UFC lightweight fighters. Despite the tension, it seems that the ‘Diamond’ is supporting ‘Iron’ in his upcoming match against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314.

Dustin Poirier reveals the estimated timeline of his retirement fight

Dustin ‘The Diamond’ Poirier is a veteran in the UFC who has consistently performed well throughout his career. Over the years, he has defeated several formidable challengers and delivered surprising upsets. Notably, his victory over Conor McGregor left the UFC community stunned. Currently, Poirier is approaching the end of his UFC career and is seeking one last fight in the promotion.

Dustin Poirier in action against Conor McGregor
Dustin Poirier in action against Conor McGregor (Image via Imago)

Poirier’s last fight was against the Dagestani fighter Islam Makhachev for the UFC lightweight title. In that match, Poirier put forth an incredible effort but was unable to secure the UFC gold. Now, after a remarkable career in the UFC, the ‘Diamond’ is seeking a retirement fight within the promotion. In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Poirier even discussed a potential timeline for this fight.

July or August probably and we’re working on UFC New Orleans. I’m trying to retire in my home state. The UFC hasn’t been there since maybe 2015… I fought on the card [headlined by Dan Henderson vs. Tim Boetsch] as well.

Dustin Poirier via MMA Fighting
YouTube video

As for his opponent, Poirier has expressed interest in fighting only established UFC fighters and wishes to steer clear of rising prospects. While many have suggested potential opponents for the veteran lightweight, the final decision has yet to be announced. It will be intriguing to see who ultimately becomes Poirier’s last opponent in the promotion.

Related: Michael Chandler Net Worth, UFC contract, Endorsements and House