k. Nurmagomedov (left) and D. Poirier (right) facing each other. Photo: Reproduction/YouTube UFC
The interim lightweight champion (up to 70,3kg.), Dustin poirier, seems to keep his feet on the ground when it comes to his opponent this Saturday (7), Khabib Nurmagomedov. In some aspects, it could be thought that the Russian, without fighting for almost a year, feels the lack of rhythm and that this influences his performance in the main fight of the UFC 242. Poirier, however, does not believe the assumption. In a recent interview at the event's conference, the athlete spoke about the subject.
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“I think it’s an individual thing. Everyone is different,” said Dustin.
To exemplify his thoughts on how he thinks Khabib will perform this weekend, the American recalled a recent case, in which Nate diaz surprised Anthony Pettis in the co-main bout of UFC 241 and beat the former lightweight champion after returning from a three-year career hiatus.
“Recently, we saw Nate diaz return and hit Anthony Pettis. Anthony stayed very active. Nate didn't fight for three years. Getting rusty from the octagon is something that people created, but more individualized. It depends on how hard you are working in the gym, how focused you are and how prepared to compete you are,” said Poirier.
The interim champion then gave his opinion on what he thinks of Nurmagomedov while he is not in competition. For Dustin, Khabib is a focused athlete and is ready for this Saturday's challenge.
“I believe Khabib is one of these guys who trains every day. He is always working on his techniques and I think he will be in his best shape on September 7th”, concluded the 'Diamante'.
Ultimate has already signaled that the winner of the duel between Khabib and Poirier will next face Tony Ferguson, undefeated in 12 fights and former interim champion of the division.
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