Dustin Poirier (image via UFC/YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Charles Oliveira is the UFC’s reigning, lightweight champ, and has done nothing but win since 2017. But, Dustin Poirier believes his toughest test right now in the division, would likely be Islam Makhachev.

On account of Poirier’s back-to-back wins over Conor McGregor this year, the expectation is that he’ll challenge Oliveira next. The latter won the vacant title this past May, by stopping Michael Chandler.

Recently Poirier did a Q&A with UFC commentator, Laura Sanko. When asked who he thinks would be his toughest fight right now, at 155 pounds, Poirier pointed to Makhachev (quote via MMA Junkie).

“For a few years now, I think 155 has been one of, if not the toughest, division in the UFC,” Poirier said. “It’s been top-heavy for a lot of years, with a lot of contenders waiting for their shot. And now there’s new guys in the mix and it’s growing stronger. But right off the top, I don’t really know. I think Khabib would, but he’s not in the mix right now. Maybe Islam (Makhachev) – similar style.”

Poirier (28-6) faced Nurmagomedov in 2019, and was submitted by the then, reigning champion in round three. Since then, “The Diamond” has won three straight, and Nurmagomedov ended up retiring in 2020.

Makhachev (20-1), meanwhile, is booked to fight former champ Rafael dos Anjos on October 30th.