After suffering a loss to UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, Dustin Poirier’s UFC career is facing uncertainty. This defeat marked the third time Poirier fell short in his quest to capture an undisputed UFC title. Although he briefly held the interim UFC lightweight crown in 2019, interim titles are not as revered as undisputed ones. The recent loss put Poirier’s record at 3-3 in his last six fights, with victories over big names like Conor McGregor, Michael Chandler, and Benoit Saint Denis, but losses to Makhachev, Justin Gaethje, and Charles Oliveira. Poirier’s setback to Gaethje was for the symbolic BMF title.
After tapping to Makhachev’s choke in Round 5 at UFC 302, Poirier, who holds a career record of 30-9-0-1, took some time to reflect on his future in the sport. He expressed his desire to be a world champion again but acknowledged the challenges ahead, considering his age, years in the sport, and the toll it has taken on his body. He returned to his home in Lafayette, Louisiana, to recover from multiple injuries sustained in the fight, including a broken nose, rib, and partially torn ACL.
With uncertainty about his future, Poirier admitted in an interview that he is leaning towards retirement. He questioned his motivation to continue fighting, especially considering the difficulty of earning another title shot after his recent setback. Despite feeling he can still compete and improve, Poirier grapples with the decision of when to walk away from the sport. He acknowledged the short window of time he has left to give the best of himself, while also considering the toll his long career has taken on him.
Having been part of the WEC/UFC since 2010, Poirier has faced numerous opponents and participated in high-stakes fights throughout his career. As he contemplates his next move, he is considering all options before making a final decision on his future in the sport. The possibility of retiring looms large, but Poirier also acknowledges the fear of missing out on what he still has to offer. Ultimately, the former three-time title challenger faces a difficult choice that could land him in the UFC Hall of Fame once his career comes to an end.
Poirier’s career trajectory has been marked by highs and lows, including significant wins and losses against some of the sport’s best fighters. Despite the challenges he has faced, Poirier has shown resilience and determination throughout his UFC journey. As he navigates this critical moment in his career, fans and pundits alike are eager to see what decision Poirier will make regarding his future in the octagon. Whether he chooses to continue fighting or pursue other endeavors, Poirier’s legacy in the sport is already firmly established.
