Dustin Poirier has been one of the UFC’s biggest stars without ever claiming a championship. He’s taken down big names like Conor McGregor and Max Holloway, yet the title has always eluded him. This year, he had another shot against Islam Makhachev, but once again, Poirier faltered and lost via submission. Now, with his submission loss being nominated for Submission of the Year, Poirier’s reaction reflects the deep frustration and pain of coming so close, only to fall short once again.
UFC recently shared the clip of Islam Makhachev submitting Dustin Poirier, and it earned a spot in the UFC Honors Submission of the Year nominations. As the one on the receiving end, Poirier tasted the bitter sting of defeat, leaving a lasting burn. Now, months later, seeing it nominated for the award feels like salt in the wound, reigniting that painful moment all over again. To which Poirier reacted by saying, “Pain @ufc Pain.”
No fighter in the world would want to see themselves in that position, and for Dustin Poirier, it was undeniably painful. Rewatching that submission clip, especially with its Submission of the Year nomination, only intensifies the sting of defeat. On top of that, as at UFC 302, Poirier came so close to the belt once again, only to fall short, making the pain even worse.
Dustin Poirier Fires Back At Nate Diaz Following Islam Makhachev Altercation
At a UFC press conference, Nate Diaz and Islam Makhachev exchanged heated words, ending with Diaz throwing a water bottle backstage. Subsequently, Poirier saw an opportunity to throw in his own challenge, posting a bold message: “Bring Nate back and let me smash him.” It’s classic UFC drama—intense, unpredictable, and adding more fuel to the fire between these fighters, making fans even more hyped for future matchups.
Poirier’s challenge to Diaz suggests that his next fight could be his last, and taking on a legend like Diaz would be the ideal way to close out his career. Additionally, the callout to Diaz is all about the history between them, the perfect timing, and his competitive fire, making it much more exciting for fans.
