SUMMARY
- Dustin Poirier is one of the most popular UFC lightweights on the roster.
- Having fought some of the best names in his division, Poirier has garnered tons of fans.
Dustin Poirier is one of the most popular UFC fighters on the roster right now. Having built a name for himself over the years, Poirier is considered a household name by many fans of the sport. Owing to his fan-friendly style of fighting and grounded personality, hardcore fans of the sport have aligned with him.
However, ‘The Diamond’ is not just all talk and no show. During his 14-year tenure (WEC and UFC), Dustin has fought some of the best of the best, being a two-time title challenger as well. Throughout his career, the Louisiana native has fought the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov, Max Holloway, Conor McGregor, Justin Gaethje, and many other big names in the sport.
A former interim lightweight title holder, it is safe to say that Poirier has been around the block. Now 35 years old, there is a lot of discussion regarding how long he intends to keep fighting. Although many may not want to hear it, it is a matter of great concern especially when it comes to a fighter like Dustin, who has been in numerous wars over the years.
Dustin Poirier’s thoughts on potentially retiring soon
For the most part, Dustin Poirier is coming off a brutal KO loss against Justin Gaethje. Having taken on ‘The Highlight’ at UFC 291, Poirier looked to stake his claim on the BMF title. Not only that, but it would also have propelled him toward a potential title shot or at the very least a title eliminator.
Instead, he now finds himself taking on one of the most dangerous fighters in his division. Revealing that he is only interested in ‘big fights’ for the rest of his career, Dustin admits that the clock is slowly winding down on his career. Speaking to Brett Okamoto from ESPN, he finally addressed the situation.
“I know it’s [the end] is coming, I can’t do this forever. I’m 35 years old. This is my 40th professional fight, I have a lot of amateur fights as well. I have a family to be there for”. Further, the UFC 299 co-main event fighter added, “Every time I get in there, Saturday night a piece of me is gonna leave that I can never get back”.
Now a family man with an established hot sauce business as well, Dustin Poirier believes that there is more to his life than just fighting. “I can’t love something so much to where it takes away from what’s most important. Fighting is just something I do”. As such, the fighter believes that any fight from here on could well be his last.
Dustin Poirier faces Benoit Saint Denis at UFC 299
All things considered, it is clear that the fans would like to watch Dustin Poirier more than a few more times. Although his upcoming fight against Benoit Saint Denis will likely be a banger, a lot of Poirier’s potential future hinges on how he will do on the night. Should he win, Dustin will likely seek out another big-name fight before the end of the year.
However, if he gets seriously hurt during the fight, he may be tempted to take a lot of time away. Worst case scenario, if he loses, fans may well have witnessed Dustin make the walk to the Octagon for the very last time. With that said, many consider Poirier more than capable of beating the #12-ranked Saint Denis. Not only is the American fighter much more technical and experienced, but he also has the endurance for a five-rounder.
Things are HEATING up in Miami 🔥@DustinPoirier vs @BenoitSt_Denis is going down at #UFC299 pic.twitter.com/8Z9cog13D0
— UFC (@ufc) January 10, 2024
On the other hand, Benoit is a warrior and has easily dealt with anyone sent his way. Whilst Poirier is a big step up in competition, the Frenchman seems unfazed as he often is. Arguably, the fight hangs very evenly and could potentially go either way. However, the implications for Dustin Poirier will clearly be much more serious if loses.