Two of the biggest titans in the sport are Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor. But, one name stands out as a bridge between these two. Dustin Poirier holds a unique distinction that sets him apart in the annals of MMA history. He’s the only fighter to have faced both the brash, lightning-quick Conor McGregor and the dominant, undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov inside the octagon. This rare feat is a testament to Poirier’s skill, durability, and his central role in some of the most captivating narratives the sport has ever seen.
“The Diamond” has proven he’s more than just a pretty nickname. He’s faced the best of the best in the octagon. His journey through the UFC’s lightweight division reads like a who’s who of MMA legends.
Let’s start with his encounters with ‘The Notorious.’ Their first bout in 2014 didn’t go Poirier’s way. McGregor’s left hand proved too much, ending the fight in the first round. But Poirier isn’t one to stay down. He dusted himself off and climbed back up the ranks. Seven years later, he got his shot at redemption. And boy, did he take it!
In their 2021 rematch, Poirier turned the tables on McGregor as he showcased his improved striking and fight IQ. The result? A second-round TKO victory that sent shockwaves through the MMA world. Not content with just one win, Dustin Poirier faced McGregor again later that year. This trilogy fight ended in controversy when McGregor broke his leg. But a win is a win, and Poirier walked away 2-1 against the Irishman.
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Now, let’s talk about ‘The Eagle’ of Dagestan. Poirier faced this undefeated champion in 2019. It was a title unification bout that had fans on the edge of their seats. However, Nurmagomedov’s grappling proved too much for Poirier that night. The fight ended with a submission in the third round. But even in defeat, Poirier showed heart and skill.
These fights showcase Dustin Poirier’s resilience and growth as a fighter. He’s not just a participant; he’s a key player in some of the UFC’s most iconic moments. Poirier’s journey is a testament to the unpredictable nature of MMA. From early setbacks to championship bouts, he’s seen it all. And he’s done it with a smile and a Louisiana swagger.
Dustin Poirier’s Three Title Opportunities
Some fighters are content to be contenders, but not Dustin Poirier. This Louisiana native has repeatedly proven that he’s a true championship material. With three title shots under his belt, Poirier’s journey is a testament to perseverance and skill.
Dustin Poirier set his sights on the undisputed champion, the undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov. Their September 2019 clash at UFC 242 was the stuff of legends. Poirier gave it his all, but Khabib’s grappling proved too much. The ‘Diamond’s‘ first shot at the undisputed title ended in a third-round submission. It was a tough pill to swallow, but as they say, you can’t keep a good man down.
Fast forward to December 2021, when Dustin Poirier had clawed his way back to title contention, leaving a trail of defeated opponents in his wake. His reward was a shot at Charles Oliveira’s lightweight crown at UFC 269. The fight was a rollercoaster of emotions for Poirier fans. Despite early success, he fell victim to Oliveira’s slick submission game in the third round.
But Dustin Poirier wasn’t done. The Louisiana native clawed his way back to title contention after defeating Benoit Saint-Denis. He now faced Islam Makhachev, protege to Khabib Nurmagomedov, for his third title defense at UFC 302. This fight was a war, going all five rounds. But once again, Makhachev’s grappling became the bane of Poirier’s title dreams as he submitted ‘The Diamond’ in the fifth round.
Three title shots, three similar outcomes. Some might see it as a disappointment, but not Dustin Poirier. Each fight was a learning experience, a chance to grow and improve. His resilience in the face of setbacks is truly inspiring. It’s this combination of skill, heart, and character that makes Dustin Poirier a true champion, belt or no belt.
Also Read: Donald Trump Praises “Warrior” Dustin Poirier After UFC 302 Fight Against Islam Makhachev
