Once more, Dustin Poirier is aiming to get a title shot. In his next bout, Poirier will attempt to overcome Justin Gaethje in order to get his shot against the lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.
‘The Diamond’ previously defeated Max Holloway to become the interim lightweight champion. However, he was not successful in his previous two attempts at the title against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira.
Similarities between Justin Gaethje & Dustin Poirier
-Both are 34 years old.
-Both are former LW interim champs.
-Both lost to the same guys via sub.
-Both have 13 letters in their name.
-Both fought for the UFC Belt twice.
-Both beat Michael Chandler.
-Both won their… pic.twitter.com/FxJ51SlN29— ɢʀᴀᴘᴘʟᴜʀʀ ™ (@Grapplurr) June 2, 2023
The epic match between Gaethje and Poirier in 2018 is still fresh in the minds of many MMA fans. The absolute war between two of UFC’s hardest hitters is still legendary five years after their initial encounter at 155 pounds.
Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje head-to-head
Earlier in May, Dana White provided some details on the packed main card for UFC 291, which is scheduled to take place in Salt Lake City on July 29. The UFC President also announced the return of the BMF championship.
The winner of the highly anticipated fight between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje will be named the new BMF belt holder. Since the retirement of Jorge Masvidal, the honorary UFC belt has been vacant.
Justin Gaethje has "tons of respect" for Dustin Poirier 🤝 pic.twitter.com/6S4YHgRqI6
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) June 2, 2023
In less than two months, The Diamond and The Highlight are expected to square off again in an exciting lightweight match. Due to their rivalry and the fact that the BMF belt is now on the line, the bout between the second and third-ranked fighters of the division is shaping up to be a potential ‘Fight of the Year’ contender.
Who can defeat Islam Makhachev?
Islam Makhachev is currently sitting on the lightweight throne. The Dagestani fighter snatched the gold strap from Charles Oliveira last year. Makhachev is most likely going to follow his friend and countryman Khabib’s path which is to defend the title several times and retire.
Hence it is hard to tell who will end his reign. Considering there are still many lightweight toppers to challenge his reign, it could very well be the winner of Dustin and Justin fight. However, the AKA prospect has also expressed his desire to fight in the welterweight division at some point.
Islam Makhachev is only a few title defenses away from becoming the UFC Lightweight GOAT pic.twitter.com/wmEgWlEQPF
— Robby MMA (@robtagon) May 30, 2023
Who do you think will emerge victorious in the bout between Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier? Share your thoughts with us in the comment section.
