As the UFC 302 main event approaches, lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan has a clear message for the reigning champion, Islam Makhachev: take Dustin Poirier down early or face danger.
The High-Stakes Showdown Between Dustin Poirier vs Islam Makhachev
Islam Makhachev (25-1 MMA, 14-1 UFC) defends his lightweight title against Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier (30-8 MMA, 22-7 UFC) in what promises to be an electrifying clash. Makhachev, known for his grappling prowess, has recently showcased his striking abilities with a knockout victory over former featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294.
However, Tsarukyan believes that engaging in a striking battle with Poirier would be a grave mistake for Makhachev. In an interview with the New York Post, Tsarukyan emphasized the need for Islam Makhachev to immediately pursue takedowns. According to Tsarukyan, Poirier’s speed and power put him on a different level:
“I see Islam is going to try and push him to the cage, to take him down and try to hold him, submit him. But if he can’t do that, it’s going to be dangerous. If he wants to box him, I think Dustin Poirier is on a different level. His punch, his speed – he can knock him out very fast.”
Arman Tsarukyan: Islam Makhachev must take Dustin Poirier down right away or 'it's going to be dangerous' https://t.co/GssSL6GWiN
— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) May 24, 2024
Tsarukyan (22-3 MMA, 9-2 UFC) himself is eyeing a title shot after defeating former champ Charles Oliveira at UFC 300. Although he passed up on a short-notice opportunity to challenge Islam Makhachev, he expects the UFC to honor his efforts and grant him a title fight in the near future:
“I’m going to wait for my title fight. I know UFC is going to give me that chance because they’re not bullsh*t. They’re going to do a real fight.”
As the MMA world eagerly awaits UFC 302, the question remains: Will Makhachev heed Tsarukyan’s advice and secure victory by taking Poirier down early, or will “The Diamond” shine even brighter on fight night?
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