UFC lightweight Dustin Poirier will have his third opportunity to become the 155-pound champion when he faces Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. Poirier is one of the most skilled fighters in the division, but he has yet to capture UFC gold, losing previous title fights to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira.
Makhachev is a highly regarded wrestler and grappler, making him a formidable opponent for Poirier. Poirier has been working on improving his takedown defense and ground game since his loss to Nurmagomedov in 2014, but it remains to be seen if he has made enough progress to overcome Makhachev’s grappling skills.
Poirier will need to use his striking skills to keep Makhachev at bay and avoid being taken down. Makhachev, on the other hand, will need to use his grappling skills to control Poirier on the ground and eventually submit him.
This is a highly anticipated matchup between two of the best fighters in the lightweight division. Poirier is hoping to finally capture UFC gold, while Makhachev is looking to continue his dominance in the division. The outcome of this fight could have a significant impact on the lightweight title picture for years to come.
