Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev is gearing up for a highly anticipated showdown at UFC 302, where he will face off against Dustin Poirier. The build-up to this fight has been intense, with both fighters and their teams expressing their views on the matchup.
Makhachev, who holds victories over Alexander Volkanovski, has been vocal about his preference for new opponents rather than rematches. Speaking during the UFC 302 media day, he explained, “I don’t like the rematch because you don’t have new motivation. Always you need to find some new target, new goal.” Despite this, he acknowledges that Poirier is a fresh challenge for him.
Interestingly, Poirier is not entirely new to Makhachev’s team. Khabib Nurmagomedov, now serving as Makhachev’s coach, defeated Poirier at UFC 242 in 2019. While nearly five years have passed since that fight, Makhachev doesn’t see much difference in his upcoming opponent. “Honestly, he’s the same,” Makhachev stated. “Maybe he’s become older, and he doesn’t believe he can beat me. His coach doesn’t believe he can beat me.”
Islam Makhachev attributes the doubt surrounding Poirier’s chances to the clash of styles. “Honestly, my style is the worst style for him,” he asserts. “He can beat some strikers, but we’re not strikers. We’re MMA fighters, and my skills are on a different level.” While he acknowledges that he can strike with Poirier, Makhachev believes he knows the path to an easy victory.
OH HELL YEAH FELLAS #UFC302 pic.twitter.com/gnpynVxzBK
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) May 30, 2024
Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Return to Islam Makhachev’s Corner
Adding to the intrigue, Khabib Nurmagomedov returns to Makhachev’s corner for UFC 302. Khabib’s presence is invaluable, providing strategic advice and boosting the team’s confidence. “It’s always good to have Khabib in the corner,” Makhachev says. “He gave me good advice in a lot of fights.”
When asked about the fight’s outcome, Makhachev is confident. “Yeah, I will finish him,” he declares. “Because I’m in a different level. I’m the best fighter in the world right now.”
As the countdown to UFC 302 continues, fans eagerly await the clash between these two skilled fighters. Will Poirier prove the doubters wrong, or will Makhachev solidify his status as the lightweight kingpin? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this matchup promises fireworks inside the octagon.
Read More- When and Where to Watch Islam Makhachev vs Dustin Poirier and Other UFC 302 Fights
SHARE
