Dustin Poirier (image via UFC / YouTube)

By FCF Staff

Dustin Poirier has long been regarded one of the best lightweights of this generation. But, the former interim champ questions whether Islam Makhachev is underestimating him, ahead of their June 1st, bout.

Recently, it was announced that Poirier will challenge Makhachev for his lightweight crown at UFC 302, which is taking place in Newark, New Jersey. The bout has materialized following Poirier’s stoppage win over Benoit Saint Denis in March, which prompted Makhachev to call for a fight with “The Diamond”.

More recently, Poirier appeared on “The MMA Hour”. While discussing the upcoming match-up, Poirier questioned whether Makhachev has the level of respect for his abilities as he should (quotes via MMA Fighting.com).

“I kind of feel like some of the stuff he says, he might not [respect me],” Poirier said. “But I’m going to put my hands on this guy. I’m coming in there to hurt him. This is my last shot. Mom’s spaghetti. Let’s go.

“I haven’t been keeping up a whole lot but when I was at the gym, Mike Brown told me, ‘Man, I think this guy may be underestimating your jiu-jitsu and underestimating how dangerous you are.’ I think what he was referring to was an interview with Islam saying, ‘This is an easy fight for me.’ I was tagged in a bunch of stuff on Instagram and Twitter of him saying that. And I don’t know, maybe he goes about all fights like that, but I can finish and beat anybody at 155 pounds in the world. I really believe that. And he doesn’t have to believe it. I’m the one who has to believe it and go out there and beat his ass. I can do that.”

Prior to stopping Saint Denis, the now 35-year-old Poirier (30-8) was knocked out by Justin Gaethje in July, 2023. Poirier has gone 3-2 in his last five bouts, with his other defeat during that time coming against former champ, Charles Oliveira. The American Top Team fighter also has a win over Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler in that time period.

The 32-year-old Makhachev (25-1), meanwhile, is riding a 13 fight, winning streak. The renowned fighter is coming off a first-round, knockout victory over Alexander Volkanovki in October.