The anticipation for UFC 302 is reaching a fever pitch, and the main event between lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and challenger Dustin Poirier is at the center of it all. During a recent faceoff, the two fighters engaged in a heated verbal exchange that left fans buzzing.
The stage was set: Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier stood face-to-face, at the pre-fight press conference where things turned a bit sour between the UFC stars. The press conference had already been spirited, but this faceoff took things to another level.
Poirier, never one to mince words, stared directly at Makhachev and declared, “He should listen to his coaches and box like they’re telling him to.” It was a bold statement, implying that Makhachev’s approach was flawed.
This verbal exchange between Islam and Dustin 😳
Dustin: “He should listen to his coaches and box like they’re telling him to.”
Islam: “This is not boxing this is MMA man.”
Dustin: “Well you’re gonna sleep like it’s boxing.” 🥶#UFC302 #UFC #MMA pic.twitter.com/9tdNq8XovF
— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) May 30, 2024
Islam Makhachev’s Retort to Dustin Poirier’s Criticism
Makhachev, with unwavering confidence, shot back, “This is not boxing; this is MMA, man.” His words carried the weight of his experience inside the octagon. But Poirier wasn’t done. He leaned in, his voice low and intense, and delivered the knockout blow: “Well, you’re gonna sleep like it’s boxing.” The tension in the room escalated as the crowd absorbed the gravity of his words and erupted in cheer.
Makhachev seemed least bothered to waste his energy on a well-thought reply, instead, he opted for a “we will see” with a smirk on his face.
This type of banter between UFC stars is common but Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier have immense respect for each other too, which they have proved over and over again while speaking about each other.
Fans are split, with some favoring Makhachev’s technical prowess and others betting on Poirier’s grit and striking ability. The stakes are high, and the outcome remains uncertain. But one thing is certain: UFC 302 will be a night to remember.
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