D. Poirier (photo) D. Poirier poses with his belt. Photo: Reproduction/Instagram @dustinpoirier
One of the most anticipated fights of the year is the meeting between Khabib Nurmagomedov (lineal champion) and Dustin poirier (interim champion), which takes place on September 7th, at UFC 242 and marks the unification of the lightweight title (up to 70,3kg.). The Russian is known for his high ability to apply takedowns to his opponents, but, however, his rival's specialty doesn't worry Dustin. In a recent interview with 'MMA Junkie', the American spoke about his expectations for the duel.
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“I'm not worried about his falls. I need to hurt this guy. This is one of the most important parts of my training. Put myself in a good position to win the rounds and win the fight”, commented Poirier. “I have to stay away from the fence, get up off the ground. But at the same time, I have to do this (hurt Khabib),” said the fighter.
Although Poirier is coming off a big victory in his career, when he beat the featherweight champion (up to 65,7kg.), Max Holloway, in a fight that excited MMA enthusiasts, in April, for UFC 236, valid for the interim lightweight belt, the athlete, this time, will have a different challenge. In addition to having the duty to become the youngest title holder in his division, the American will have the obligation to become the first man to beat Nurmagomedov, undefeated in his professional career in 27 contests.
“I have the opportunity to make history and achieve something that has never been done. I'm focused on that. I'm glad I put myself in this position of having to show the world how good I am. Make history. That’s what it’s all about,” Dustin said.
Despite the difficulties he will face when sharing the octagon with the Russian, Poirier may try to take advantage of the time in which the Russian does not have a professional fight. The linear champion last played in October last year, almost a year ago. The athlete served a nine-month suspension after the confusion that occurred after his victory over Conor McGregor, at UFC 229. On that occasion, when he submitted the Irishman, Nurmagomedov jumped the containment fence and tried to attack one of the members of Conor's team, causing general confusion in the octagon.
In September, Poirier will try to win the 26th victory in his career, which, today, totals 30 fights and five defeats. The North American is going through a great moment in MMA. His last defeat came in September 2016, when he was beaten by his compatriot, Michael Johnson. Since then, the athlete has had six fights, winning five and one fight without result.
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