Dustin Poirier has endured a barrage of taunts from Islam Mahkachev (25-1). He’s heard it all on Twitter and the press, listening to the Russian fighter’s various insults. Whether Mahkachev is calling the Coconut Creek native a “permanent” contender or bringing up his underwhelming title performances, sharp barbs have been traded.
However, Poirier has made a case for him to not be “underestimated.” While the UFC Lightweight Champion hasn’t lost in eight years, Poirier is a seasoned veteran who knows how to take his lumps. He also acknowledges this might be his “last shot.” Therefore, he knows the challenge that lies ahead.
But will it be enough in New Jersey on June 1st? Is the champion underestimating Dustin Poirier and his talents? “The Diamond” might make a legitimate case to take down the champ. However, he does have some factors going against him.
The Case for Dustin Poirier
If Anthony Smith’s fight is any indication, it proves that the more experienced fighter can steal a fight. The Omaha native locked in a guillotine choke mid-slam, taking down Vitor Petrino at UFC 301.
Poirier (30-8) does have that going for him, competing in 13 more matches than the UFC Lightweight Champion. That also comes with big-time wins over fighters such as Conor McGregor (twice) and Max Holloway (twice), making him a dangerous fighter.
That could come in handy on June 1st, as the former UFC Lightweight Champion looks to reclaim his title. Poirier can take notes from Smith’s fight against Petrino and learn how to effectively counter Mahkachev’s offense.
The Case Against Dustin Poirier
One of Poirier’s eight career losses came against Mahkachev’s mentor, Khabib Nurmagomedov, who put the “Diamond” in a rear-naked choke. Mahkachev operates in the same vein as Khabib, which makes him a challenging opponent for Poirier.
The current UFC Lightweight Champion also makes a good point about being a “permanent contender.” While Poirier has had incredible victories over McGregor and Holloway, there were times when Poirier fell apart.
That Khabib fight was for the UFC Lightweight Championship, as was his loss to Charles Oliveira on December 11, 2021. “The Diamond” doesn’t show up in title fights, with his last three losses proving Mahkachev’s point.
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Jacob Walters is a boxing/MMA writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @IceColdWJacob
