Dustin Poirier Considering Retirement After UFC 302 Fight With Islam Makhachev

Photo: Instagram/Dustin Poirier

Dustin Poirier, the popular American UFC fighter, might retire after his title fight against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. The bout, set for June 1, is Poirier's third attempt to win the undisputed lightweight title.

Poirier, 35, previously held the interim lightweight title in 2019 but lost the unification bout to Khabib Nurmagomedov by submission. In 2021, he challenged for the gold again but was submitted by Charles Oliveira. Now, as he prepares to face Makhachev, Poirier admits this could be his last fight if he doesn't win.

“I’m not going to climb the ladder again,” Poirier told CBS on May 23. “I’ve been doing this a long time. It’s a very selfish sport. I’m ready to be a father and be a husband and be home and be into a routine.”

Photo: Instagram/Dustin Poirier

Poirier expressed that, win or lose, he wants to be content with his career. “Of course, I’m looking at the brighter side and trying to be positive that I’m going to finish the story and seal the deal and become undisputed lightweight champ after my 31st fight in the UFC. What a story that would be.”

Poirier's last fight was in March, where he knocked out Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 299, bouncing back from a knockout loss to Justin Gaethje last July. Poirier, known for his thrilling fights, has notable victories over Conor McGregor (twice), Max Holloway (twice), Michael Chandler, Eddie Alvarez, and Anthony Pettis.

However, it's worth noting that Poirier didn't defeat any of these fighters while they were defending champions. His second win over Holloway came when Holloway was the reigning featherweight champion, which earned Poirier the interim lightweight title.

Fans are eagerly awaiting the UFC 302 main event, knowing it could mark the end of Poirier's illustrious career.

Read Next: Ryan Garcia Threatens To Quit Boxing, Cites Steroid Controversy

Source: Yahoo Sports 

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